Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has reassured Igbo people living abroad that they will be safe if they return home for the New Year celebrations. In a statement issued by the group’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB emphasized that its security arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), would guarantee peace and security during the festive period.
The statement read:
“Alaigbo is a very peaceful region. IPOB encourages our people to return home and enjoy a peaceful festive season. ESN operatives will ensure a secure atmosphere throughout the festivities. Our people should come home and contribute their best to ensuring that Alaigbo remains peaceful.”
IPOB further stressed the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Southeast, recognizing the region as a key economic hub in Africa. The group highlighted the need for a stable environment to foster economic growth, urging every Igbo man and woman to contribute to the peace-building efforts.
“We need peace to thrive as an economic powerhouse. Every Igbo man and woman must work towards peace and security in Alaigbo. While other regions may appear to enjoy relative peace and security, our region is often subjected to occupation and subjugation by Nigerian security forces,” IPOB stated.
The group also criticized the Nigerian government’s security measures in the Southeast, particularly the numerous military and police checkpoints, which they argue cause frustration for travelers and hinder free movement.
“The uncountable numbers of police and military extortion checkpoints are frustrating motorists and travelers. IPOB calls for the dismantling of all indiscriminate military, police, and other checkpoints in the Southeast,” the statement added.
In addition, IPOB urged Igbo people in the diaspora to bring their investments back to the region, citing the potential for economic development and job creation for the youth.
“We are committed to ensuring that investments brought home are secure and well-protected,” IPOB concluded.
