Imo State, Nigeria – The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has demanded an independent investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State.
In a statement released on Friday, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, acknowledged the recent security operations aimed at dislodging criminal elements from the area. However, the group insisted on a transparent inquiry to uncover the full extent of events.
IPOB commended security efforts to restore peace in Orsu but alleged that certain actions may have led to human rights violations. The group also reiterated its support for the Eastern Security Network (ESN), which it claims is focused on countering criminal activities in the South-East.
Furthermore, IPOB accused a group called the Biafra Liberation Army, allegedly led by Finland-based Simon Ekpa, of being sponsored by the Nigerian government to impersonate IPOB and ESN.
According to IPOB, the Nigerian government has used criminal groups to create instability in the South-East and justify terrorism charges against its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Emma Powerful stated, “The objective was to use these criminals to shop for evidence that would support the bogus terrorism charges against Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.”
The group questioned why security forces took over three years to act against criminal elements operating from the notorious “Mother Valley” camp in Orsu and Okigwe. IPOB also urged authorities to extend their operations to Aku forest in Okigwe, where another alleged criminal commander, identified as “Gentle Yahoo,” is said to be based.
Allegations Against Nigerian Politicians
IPOB accused several high-profile politicians, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, and former Ebonyi State Governor David Umahi, of fueling insecurity in the region.
The pro-Biafra group condemned the indiscriminate arrest of Igbo youths and the alleged branding of innocent civilians as ESN operatives. IPOB reiterated that ESN does not operate in communities but is stationed in forests to combat threats such as kidnappers and armed herdsmen.
IPOB warned against what it described as an ethnically motivated crackdown on the Igbo people. The group urged the Nigerian government and the Imo State government to compensate victims of violence, including those affected by alleged extrajudicial killings.
As security operations continue in Orsu and other volatile areas in the South-East, IPOB vowed to continue exposing criminal elements while ensuring its movement is not used as a front for violence.
The group called on authorities to act professionally and conduct unbiased investigations into all incidents of violence and killings.
