The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has assured Igbos of their safety on their return for the Yuletide celebration.
Speaking through its Directorate of State (DOS), the separatist group called on Ndigbo and Biafrans to return to their homeland to celebrate the Christmas season, assuring that its Eastern Security Network (ESN) operatives would ensure safety and a peaceful atmosphere during the festive period.
In a statement signed by Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, the group reaffirmed its commitment to tackling insecurity in the South East region and emphasized its role in fostering peace and development.
IPOB described Alaigbo as a historically peaceful region and urged all Igbos to contribute to maintaining harmony, which is critical for the region’s economic growth. The group highlighted that peace and security in the South East should not lag behind other regions in Nigeria, even as it accused the Nigerian government of exacerbating insecurity in the region through militarization and alleged subjugation.
“We need peace to thrive as a strategic economic hub in Africa. Every Igbo man and woman must work towards peace and security in Alaigbo,” the statement read.
The group reiterated its commitment to securing investments in the South East and encouraged Igbos to bring their investments home to spur development and create job opportunities for the region’s youth.
IPOB warned criminals to steer clear of the South East, especially during the Christmas season, as ESN operatives and IPOB volunteers are actively working to make the region inhospitable for criminal activities. The group also accused the Nigerian government and its security forces of sponsoring insecurity as a pretext for continued militarization of the region.
“We call for the dismantling of all indiscriminate and illegal military, police, and other checkpoints in the South East. These checkpoints are sources of extortion, intimidation, and harassment of travelers,” the group stated.
IPOB highlighted the role of ESN operatives in safeguarding Biafran bushes and forests to prevent criminal elements from using them as hideouts. The group encouraged residents to contact ESN operatives when needed, through the published security information contact numbers.
The statement concluded with a call to all stakeholders to prioritize peace and development in Alaigbo, emphasizing IPOB’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and investments in the region.
As the festive season approaches, IPOB’s assurance of security by its ESN operatives aims to encourage more Biafrans to reconnect with their homeland and foster the region’s growth and stability.
