The proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has urged Ndigbo to return to the South East to celebrate the Christmas, assuring that the Eastern Security Network operatives will ensure safety and a peaceful atmosphere during the festive period.
This is contained in a statement by the group’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful on Thursday.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to tackling insecurity in the South East, emphasising its role in fostering peace and development.
IPOB stressed that peace and security in the South East should not lag behind other regions in Nigeria, even as it accused the federal 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 toward 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.
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It also cautioned criminals to steer clear of the South East, particularly during the Christmas season, as ESN operatives and IPOB volunteers are actively working to make the region unhabitable for criminal activities.
The group also accused the federal government and its security forces of sponsoring insecurity in the South East 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 bushes and forests in the South East to prevent criminal elements from using them as hideouts.
