By IPoB’s Response
In recent times, there has been much controversy and speculation surrounding the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The Nigerian Army’s claims of arresting 80 IPoB members and ESN operatives have sparked outrage and debate. IPoB, however, has vehemently denied these allegations, labeling them as nothing more than a hoax and brazen blackmail tactics employed by the Nigerian military and government. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the intricacies of this issue and shed light on IPoB’s stance.
The Alleged Arrests: Fact or Fiction?
IPoB’s Response
The Nigerian Army’s assertion of arresting 80 IPoB members and ESN operatives has stirred up a whirlwind of controversy. IPoB’s response has been swift and resolute, with their Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, categorically dismissing these claims as a mere fabrication. According to IPoB, these allegations are part of a broader strategy employed by the security forces to target innocent Igbo youths and pro-Biafra activists under the guise of maintaining law and order.
IPoB’s Perspective
IPoB’s Response
IPoB maintains that it has no intention of engaging in conflict with Nigeria’s security forces, but it refuses to stand idly by while innocent Igbo youths are allegedly killed extra-judicially. Emma Powerful, in his statement, expressed concern that the military’s actions were an attempt to brand innocent individuals as IPoB members and ESN operatives, leading to their untimely demise. This, according to IPoB, is a grave injustice.
The Hoax Narrative
IPoB’s Response
The term “hoax” has been employed by IPoB to describe the entire situation. In their view, the Nigerian Army’s constant illusion of capturing and eliminating ESN operatives is nothing short of a charade. They argue that the military’s relentless campaign against ESN is a smokescreen to divert attention from the larger issues plaguing the region.
The Role of IPoB in the Region
IPoB’s Response
IPoB emphasizes that its primary goal is the emancipation of Biafra land from what they perceive as the menace of terrorist herdsmen and their alleged collaboration with the Fulani military and police. They assert that the military’s presence in the East serves purposes that go beyond addressing these concerns.
Military Presence in the East
IPoB’s Response
According to IPoB, the military’s presence in the Southeast Region, Biafra land, serves three primary purposes:
1. Extortion
IPoB’s Response
IPoB alleges that the military often extorts money from the local population and motorists, raising questions about the true motivations behind their activities in the region.
2. Alleged Infiltrators
IPoB’s Response
Another concern raised by IPoB is the military’s provision of a safe haven for alleged infiltrator criminal agents. This claim, if substantiated, would cast a shadow of doubt on the military’s operations in the area.
3. Protection of Fulani Herdsmen
IPoB’s Response
IPoB further asserts that the military presence is geared towards the protection of Fulani terrorist herdsmen. This assertion opens a Pandora’s box of questions regarding the security forces’ priorities in the region.
The Discipline of ESN Operatives
IPoB’s Response
ESN, according to IPoB, is a disciplined and focused organization with a singular mission: dislodging Fulani terrorists, often referred to as herdsmen, from Biafra’s farmlands and forests. They emphasize that ESN does not engage in conflicts with Nigeria’s security forces and is not involved in any criminal activities.
Clarification on IPoB and ESN
IPoB’s Response
It is crucial to clarify the distinction between IPoB members and ESN operatives. IPoB members are not terrorists, and neither are ESN operatives. IPoB describes ESN operatives as volunteers dedicated to maintaining peace and security in Biafra land.
The Harsh Reality
IPoB’s Response
IPoB makes a grim assertion that Nigeria’s security forces, particularly the military, are allegedly committing genocide in Biafra land. They claim that the victims of these actions are innocent Igbo youths and men, not IPoB members or ESN operatives. The severity of this accusation underscores the urgency of addressing the situation.
The Resilience of ESN Operatives
IPoB’s Response
ESN operatives, as described by IPoB, are not visible on the streets of Biafra land, making them difficult targets for capture or elimination. IPoB warns that any attempt to target ESN operatives would not come without consequences for the Nigerian military.
Criminal Gangs and the East
IPoB’s Response
IPoB acknowledges the presence of criminal gangs in the Southeast region, some of which masquerade as ESN. They emphasize that ESN operatives maintain discipline and focus in their tasks and do not engage in social media activities or showbiz.
A Final Plea
IPoB’s Response
In conclusion, IPoB calls on the Nigerian government and its security agencies to cease linking ESN or IPoB family members to the activities of criminal gangs. They assert that some of these gangs are allegedly creations of the Nigerian government, aimed at discrediting IPoB’s peaceful struggle under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The allegations and counterclaims surrounding the arrests of ESN operatives are complex and highly charged. As the situation continues to evolve, it is imperative to seek transparency, justice, and a peaceful resolution to the issues at hand.
