The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a statement assuring the Igbo people, both at home and in the diaspora, of robust security across the Southeast region during the upcoming Christmas and New Year festive season.
Naijaonpoint reports that the group urged them to return in large numbers without fear.
Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, gave the assurance on Sunday, confirming that the group’s security arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), would work alongside community volunteers to maintain safety.
IPOB stated that ESN operatives and volunteers would ensure the safety of residents and visitors throughout the yuletide season, urging people to “Return home for the festive season and consider investing in the region.”
The group described the Southeast as one of the most peaceful regions in Nigeria, despite what it termed “sponsored instability” and attempts by “unnamed political actors and criminal groups to create fear.”
Powerful specifically dismissed reports of a recent mass kidnapping along the Owerri–Aba Expressway at Ngor Okpala.
He described the circulating video as an old clip that had resurfaced on social media to create panic.
IPOB maintained that ESN security operations are often carried out discreetly and are not publicized online.
The group also warned the public that the ESN does not operate official social media accounts and cautioned against misinformation.
IPOB accused the Federal Government and some political actors of trying, unsuccessfully, to dismantle its operations, while reiterating its long-standing demand for the self-determination of the Biafra region.
“Return home for the festive season and consider investing in the region. Your safety is guaranteed. We wish travellers a peaceful Christmas and safe journeys,” IPOB said.
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