Lifestyle

Residents protest IPOB’s sit-at-home order in Enugu

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Enugu residents and civil society organisations have protested the weekly sit-at-home“ order by the Simon Ekpa faction of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The protesters, who converged on the popular Michael Okpara Square as early as 8:00 a.m., moved through the Presidential Road, Ogui Road, Ogbete Main Market, Okpara Avenue, Garden Avenue, New Haven, Bisala Road and back to Okpara Square.

They carried banners and placards with inscriptions saying, ”Enough Is Enough,” “Say No To Sit-At-Home in Enugu,” “Allow The Poor to Breathe,” “Our Mumu Don Do,” “Enugu People Must Be Freed from The Shackles of Those Who Want to Hold Them Down,” among others.

Onyinye Mammah, the executive director of the Heroine Women Foundation, said they decided to take the bold initiative following the devastating economic effects of the Monday sit-at-home order.

“How can you continue to do something that has not benefitted you since it was started? We pay school fees, and our children don’t go to school and businesses are shut on Mondays. A few people have decided to create anarchy, take the law into their own hands and make life uncomfortable for others,” Ms Mammah explained.

She added,

“We cannot continue this way, and that is why we think there is a need to support Governor Peter Mbah in his effort to end the Monday sit-at-home order.”

A protester, Arthur Edeh, described the order as cancer.“People should feel free to go about their businesses. The security network in Enugu is massive, and nobody should threaten you with illegal sit-at-home order,” he stated.

A representative of the Nsukka council area, Emeka Nwangwu, said they participated in the protest because they were tired of sitting at home on Mondays.

“I came from Nsukka to support our governor to end this menace, and I am here also to inform our people that Nsukka is free from Monday’s sit-at-home directive. Opi, Nsukka, and Ugwuogo Nike Road are free for movement, and people are free to travel anytime without threat and attack,” said Mr Nwangwu.

“I advise our people to come out en masse to support our governor as we are losing a lot from sitting at home.“

Politics

Several casualties as suspected IPOB, ESN gunmen attack Isi-Uzo police division

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The police command in Enugu says it has launched a manhunt for gunmen who attacked its Isi-Uzo division in the Ikem community of Isi-Uzo local council.

This is contained in a statement by the command’s spokesman, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, on Tuesday in Enugu.

The police said assailants attempted to attack the divisional station in the wee hours of Tuesday morning.

“Tactical police operatives of the command are on the trail of armed hoodlums suspected to be members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN) wing.

The outlawed IPOB/ESN group members, who, in their numbers today, at about 4:30 a.m., attempted to attack the Isi-Uzo police division of the command, were repelled by police operatives on duty,” the police statement explained.

The command added,

“Many of the miscreants escaped with gunshot wounds while one of the police operatives who sustained gunshot wounds is receiving treatment and in stable condition.”

Politics

Ohaneze Ndigbo urges government to release Nnamdi Kanu

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The Vice President of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Damian Okeke-Ogene, has urged the federal government to heed the call to release Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Mr Okeke-Ogene said that time is now apt for the federal government to heed calls from prominent Nigerians to release Kanu. He disclosed that Anambra Governor Chukwuma Soludo and other stakeholders in the past have urged the federal government to release Kanu.

Mr Okeke-Ogene said restoration and promotion of the rule of law and respect for the fundamental human rights of individuals are key to stabilising the polity.

He said that respect for the rule of law restores people’s confidence in governance and appealed to the government to shun calls for Kanu’s continued detention.

He condemned in strong terms the recent outburst of the ex-Niger Delta militant leader, Asari Dokubo, asking the federal government not to release the IPOB leader.

Mr Okeke-Ogene said that such a call was prompted by personal and selfish interests to attract favour from the government.

According to Okeke-Ogene, the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu is not in the interest of the country since different courts of competent jurisdiction “have already freed him.”

He assured that Igbo stakeholders are not relenting in the efforts to ensure that Mr Kanu is released. Mr Okeke-Ogene reacted to the demolition of some buildings at Alaba Market in Lagos state and urged Igbos in the area to remain calm.

He said that Ohaneze Ndigbo leadership is taking measures and efforts to ensure a peaceful resolution of the matter to protect their interests.

On governance in Anambra state, Mr Okeke-Ogene commended Mr Soludo for his political will and courage in focusing on fulfilling his promises to the people of the state.

He stated that the Ekwulobia flyover project and other infrastructural facilities are aimed at accelerating sustainable development and a better future for the state.

He extolled those affected by the project for their understanding and collaboration with the state government.

Politics

IPOB tackles Nigerians linking Peter Obi with the recent attack on US consulate convoy in Anambra

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The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has tackled Nigerians who are linking the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to last week’s attack on the convoy of US consulate staff in Ogbaru, Anambra State, last week.

In a statement released by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the group asked that Nigerians should desist from linking the former Anambra state governor to the attack and described the allegation as a mere demonization by those it noted do not want Obi to succeed.

IPOB argued that Obi “won” the February 25 presidential allegation and that his mandate is divine and can never be truncated by anyone.

“Those linking Peter Obi to these attacks on US Embassy Convoy are the ones that fingers are pointing to regarding the crisis happening in the south East region. There is no way they can link innocent Peter Obi to it because he is from Anambra State. Does that mean that all the attacks happening in Adamawa State and Katsina State were caused by Atiku Abubakar and the Buhari in Aso Rock, respectively? No matter how ESN security work is, it can never be deemed good or right by the Nigerian government and its security agents. What is the justification to link Peter Obi to the criminalities going on in the Southeast? Can it also be said that all the banditry and terrorism happening in Northern Nigeria is masterminded by their criminal politicians whose evidence shows that they aid and abet terrorists? We are aware that several terrorist and bandit groups in the North are sponsored by the unscrupulous elements around them there.

We should be asking, why are they mentioning Peter Obi? Is it because he summoned up the courage to contest their selection process called an election and won by a landslide? They are now robbing him of the mandate given to him by the people of Nigeria because he is an Igbo man.They are busy exposing their cluelessness in desperation to demonize IPOB.

America has one of the most sophisticated intelligence in the world and can not be deceived by Alamajiris in the government at Abuja. We expect the US government to carry out an independent investigation into the attack.”the group said

IPOB also denied claims that its members carried out the attack.

The US consulate staff were in the local government area for a humanitarian work when their convoy came under attack on Tuesday, May 16. Seven persons were killed in the attack.

Politics

Ohanaeze appeals to President Buhari to release Nnamdi Kanu before leaving office

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The Ohanaeze Ndigbo has once again called on President Muhammadu Buhari to release the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu.

The president of the apex Igbo socio-political group, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, made the call at the flag-off of the pre-dredging and hydrographic survey of the proposed sea access route of the Urashi-Oguta waterways through Degema to the Atlantic Ocean.

While speaking at the ceremony which was attended by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Iwuanyawu said;

“Please, finally, our vice president, tell our brother and son, Buhari, that the Ohanaeze Ndigbo – the over 60 million Igbos – request that he should release Nnamdi Kanu

”According to him, President Buhari should do it “before he departs” office on May 29th, 2023, noting that the Igbo nation will be “very grateful” if that is done. He seized the opportunity to dismiss claims that the Igbos were eager to break away from Nigeria.

“Igbos are not seceding. I don’t see why anybody will say Igbos are seceding. Igbos are everywhere. We have investments. Are we going to leave our investments?” he asked Chief Iwuanyanwu also lauded Buhari for his love for the South-East which is reflected in the number of Federal Government projects in the region.

“I would like the vice president, when you go, tell Buhari we are very grateful. When he took office we were not happy, we complained. But today, at the point of departure, things have changed.

I can see that in most states a lot has been done. Here in Imo state, a lot has been done for us. So, I would like you to tell our son, Buhari, that we are very grateful. And I want Buhari to realize that he is an Igbo son, an honorary Igbo man.He has been honoured by some Igbo states. I think Imo State has honoured him, and Ebonyi has honoured him.

Chieftancy title in Igbo land is taken very seriously. You have to help us tell Buhari that he is an Igbo son, he is a member of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo by this honour given to him and what I am speaking here today, I am also speaking on his behalf.We are very grateful for what he has done, but before he goes, whatever he can do to bring this project to succeed will be highly appreciated.” he said

Lifestyle

IPOB declares May 30 sit-at-home to honour fallen heroes

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The Indigenous People of Biafra have declared May 30 as a day for sit-at-home in the South-East to honour its fallen heroes and those who died during the civil war.

In a statement released by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, on Monday, May 8, the group called on industries, companies, transport companies (air, land and sea) hotels, schools, and churches to shut down in honour of its heroes and heroines.

The pro-Biafran group stated that the lockdown would be total as every economic, social, religious, and political activities in the region would be suspended with the exception of hospitals, doctors, nurses, ambulances, and other health workers.

The statement read in part reads“IPOB, ably led by the leader, Nnamdi Kanu, wishes to remind Biafrans, friends of Biafra, and lovers of Biafra freedom across the world that May 30 is sacrosanct and every Biafran must remember and honour those who died for us to live.

We remember those who died in the Nigeria genocidal war against Biafra, the mothers and fathers bombed in the marketplaces, hospitals, churches, and those children that the Federal Government starved to their early death. We cannot forget them till eternity.We must remember those who died in slave chains and in tortures in the hands of the slave masters, those thrown overboard, and those that preferred death than to be taken as slaves. We remember them all.

We remember our eternal leader, Ikemba Nnewi Dikedioranma Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, General Philip Efiong, Dr Frank Opigo, Okonko Ndem, Col. Achzie, Bruce Mayrock, Christian aid workers, Biafra aid volunteers, and many others who contribution during the civil war.

We remember IPOB members who were brutally murdered during peaceful protests and rallies, those murdered in Aba, Onitsha, Asaba, Igweocha, Enugu, Nkpor, Ebonyi in cold blood by the Nigeria Army at the resident of our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Okwuchukwu Kanu, in 2017.

This year’s event will be special, and the one-day sit-at-home in Biafraland will be total and will be from 6am to 6pm on May 30, 2023.

Every economic, social, religious, and political activity in Biafraland will be suspended, with the exception of hospitals, doctors, nurses, ambulances, and other health workers. All other people and workplaces are advised to sit at home.

Also, Biafrans in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria are encouraged to join the sit-at-home order on that day; it’s only one day.

We, therefore, advise Biafrans and other residents in Biafra territory to avoid endangering their lives or their businesses by obeying the sit-at-home order from IPOB’s leadership.Wherever our people are or gathered on that day, they must pray with lit candles and must observe three minutes of silence immediately at 12 noon.

Finally, the only joy and rest to appease our fallen heroes and heroines is Biafra restoration. So, ‘we must continue’.”

Politics

Nnamdi Kanu is suffering from heart and nutrient deficiency – IPOB alleges

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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has alleged that their leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is suffering from nutrient deficiency and heart ailments.

The secessionist group made the claim in a statement released by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, on Tuesday, March 14. They challenged the DSS to prove them wrong by allowing Kanu’s physician attend to him.

The statement read;

“A common sense question for the DSS is whether anyone is ever fine in their solitary confinement facility, especially someone they have refused a change of clothes, refused his praying shawl and denied access to his doctor when they are fully aware that he has a health issue.

“If DSS claimed that Kanu is adequately being taken care of and that IPOB and his lawyers are deceiving the public for sympathy, they should allow unfiltered access to his physician to investigate his present health status.

“It is imperative to deliver this message to the public that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s health condition is still deteriorating inside DSS solitary confinement as a result of poor or lack of medical attention and feeding.

“Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has an unresolved nutrient deficiency. He also has an ear and heart condition that requires urgent surgery. DSS should release MNK unconditionally as ordered by the court or take him to specialists for proper medical examination and treatment.

Recruiting media dogs to attack IPOB, MNK, and his legal team will not exonerate them should anything bad happen to our leader.”

Also reacting to claim of IPOB lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor allegedly working against Kanu, Powerful said;

“How could someone with a sane mind say that Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, who has been under serious attacks from DSS and the Nigeria Army, is working against Mazi Nnamdi Kanu or IPOB?”

Politics

Governor Soludo calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s unconditional release, offers to stand as surety

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Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has appealed to the Nigerian government to “unconditionally and immediately” release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu.

The governor of Anambra state made the call at a political gathering in Awka, the state capital on Saturday, January 14.

Governor Soludo went further to assert that if the detained IPOB leader cannot be released unconditionally, he should be released to him saying he is ready to stand surety for him.

“I am making a passionate appeal to the Federal Government to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally. If he cannot be released unconditionally, I want him released to me and I will stand surety for him.

We need Nnamdi Kanu in the roundtable conversation to discuss the insecurity in the South East. We must end insecurity in the South East and we need Nnamdi Kanu to be around.”

Soludo promised to cater for Nnamdi Kanu and also offered to bring him to the authorities any time he is required

“I will house him here in Awka. We need him released to end insecurity in the South-east,” he said.

Kanu was arrested by the Federal government in June 2021 and has been in detention since then.

Politics

IPOB denies burning INEC offices or attacking political rallies

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The Indigenous People of Biafra(IPOB) has denied any involvement in the burning of offices belonging to the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) in the South East regions.

As the 2023 general elections approach, several offices belonging to INEC have been attacked by persons alleged to be members of the secessionist group.

However in a statement released by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the IPOB said the allegations were meant to disparage and blackmail the group. Powerful also denied allegations about the purported bomb factory owned by the group and killing of politicians in the South East.

He claimed they were political moves aimed at ruining Peter Obi’s chances in the 2023 presidential election.

He also dismissed claims that members of the group were responsible for attacks on political rallies in the South East region.

The statement read…

“We know that they want to rig the elections in the South East against Peter Obi and blame it on IPOB and ESN.

They burn markets and different properties of our people and blame it on IPOB. They declared a five-day ignored sit-at-home and killed our people and even killed a pregnant mother using IPOB and ESN identity.

All these activities were sponsored by Fulani terrorists and that’s why there haven’t been any arrest or prosecution of the perpetrators.

They target to blackmail IPOB locally and internationally. These criminals were groomed to ensure they demonise IPOB and ESN.

We are also not responsible for any attacks on their political rallies or destruction of political paraphernalia.

These criminals and cultists recruited by the Federal Government and its compromised security agencies have caused a lot of harm to our people and our land. We promise that they will regret their actions in due time.

As the 2023 election is fast approaching, anybody or group attacking political campaigns or destroying political materials in Biafraland should not be associated with IPOB. Those persons should be treated as common criminals,” he said.

Lifestyle

Stop military from slaughtering your people – IPOB warns Gov Soludo

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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has claimed ‘Fulani-controlled’ military are responsible for the alleged killing of innocent people in Ogbaru and Nnewi South Local Government Areas of Anambra State.

IPOB has now asked Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to speak up against the killings.

According to the secessionist group, the governor’s “silence” showed that he is allegedly competing with his Imo State counterpart, Hope Uzodimma, in using the military to kill his people.

This was contained in a statement signed by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, on Sunday.

Powerful admitted that although “there are some pockets of petty criminals in the State as obtainable elsewhere in Nigeria, “it is not enough reason for the Nigerian military to randomly be slaughtering our people like chickens.”

According to him, “The military started shooting innocent people sporadically on the road and some were gunned down in their homes in Ogbaru and Nnewi South.

“Soludo are you aware of the military exercise? Is this kind of military depopulation of your people part of the deal you entered with the enemies of Ndigbo before being voted into office as Anambra governor last November?”

The group added that IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) operatives were doing their best to stop those perpetrating criminalities in the region.

Lifestyle

Two killed as police invade IPOB hideout, arrest others in Ebonyi

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The Ebonyi State Police Command on Monday said that it has invaded the main camp of Eastern Security Network, ESN, located at Isu community in Onicha LGA of the state and dislodged suspected criminals.

The state Commissioner of Police, who spoke to newsmen in Abakaliki through the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Chris Anyanwu, said the suspected criminals were dislodged through the joint efforts of the security operatives; police, DSS and the military.

He revealed that the command equally arrested two notorious native doctors; Itumo Edeh Omukwor, 63, and Irem Ogbeji Nwaduma, 50, from Okpera Osege in Ndufu Echara Ikwo LGA of the state.

Anyanwu noted further the suspected native doctors were arrested in connection with the incessant attacks on Police formations/personnel and government establishments as well as preparing their cohorts with charms when going for such dastardly attacks.

He said that the hoodlums attacked and killed a police officer attached to Ebonyi State Police Command, whose name is yet to be identified.

He said: “A joint operation of the Ebonyi State Police Command Tactical Operation Teams, the Military and DSS embarked on an operation to dislodge criminals hibernating at a camp at Isu Onicha.

“This was sequel to an attack on a Police patrol team yesterday evening during which an Police officer was murdered in cold blood by the hoodlums.

“While surveying the one-way route into the camp, the combined security forces were ambushed by the hoodlums who rained sporadic bullet shots in their direction.

“In a swift and spontaneous response, the joint team engaged the hoodlums in a counter-firing that lasted over 30 minutes and neutralized them.

“As a result of the superior fire power of the joint team, some of the hoodlums with bullet-wounds scampered for escape in different directions. The team later combed the bush and recovered two AK-47 rifles with a few rounds of their ammunition and three corpses of the assailants.

“The team made their way to the main enclave of the miscreants and after a thorough ransacking, recovered more exhibits,” he said.

Items recovered from the suspects include; one AK-49 rifle breech number 1984-AM1196, one AK-47 rifle breech number 1971-DF2726, one AR rifle with illegible breech number, 147 rounds of AR ammunition, 38 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, one locally fabricated double-barrelled pistol.

Also, two walkie-talkie sets and their chargers, two charm-like substances,one hospital card, one Diamond Bank ATM card, two National ID cards, and one Techno phone battery and other incriminating items.

“Two of the criminals were fatally wounded and were confirmed dead at the hospital,” he stated.

Politics

‘Stop IPOB from using your platform to incite violence in Nigeria,’ FG tells Facebook

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The Federal Government on Tuesday asked the social media giant, Facebook, to stop the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) from using its platform to incite violence in the country.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, made the call at a meeting with a team from Facebook in Abuja.

He said several people had been killed in the South-East because of the group’s activities, adding that Facebook has no reason whatsoever for allowing the use of its platform to the organisation whose goal was to destabilise the country.

The latest warning came about one year after the federal government suspended another social media platform, Twitter, for allegedly promoting hate speech and other activities undermining the country’s existence.

Mohammed said: “I have called this meeting to enable us to discuss the increasing use of Facebook by separatists and anarchists, especially those of them based outside the country, to instigate violence and ethnic hatred in Nigeria.

For whatever reason, they seem to have now chosen Facebook as their platform of choice. And their tools include disinformation, incendiary statements and hate speech.

They use Facebook broadcasts to reach their followers, who are in thousands. They tag those opposed to their violent ways as ‘saboteurs’ who must be attacked, maimed and killed. They use both English and their local language as it suits them.

“Our social media people have been monitoring these separatists, anarchists and purveyors of hate, and have been reporting their atrocious actions to Facebook, but all they get are default responses that their complaints have been received and are being looked into.

“Most often than not, nothing is done about such complaints. The truth is that whatever Facebook is doing to check these people is mere tokenism and is totally ineffective.”

Politics

Why IPOB must drop quest for Biafra Republic – Gov Mohammed

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The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, on Friday explained why the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) should drop its agitation for the actualization of the Republic of Biafra.

Mohammed, who addressed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members in Anambra State, said the people of the South-East extraction own half of the capital investments in the country.

The governor is one of the politicians eyeing the PDP presidential ticket at this month’s primary slated for Abuja.

He noted that IPOB should not be talking about self-determination when the Igbos have investments in every part of the country.

He said: “When I was minister of Federal Capital Territory, the Igbo capital investment in Abuja was over 50 percent.

That is the true position, not only in Abuja, but in Kano, Lagos, Kaduna and other states. So, we are interrelated and connected as a people in Nigeria.

“We need to stabilise that symbiotic bond that binds us together. When IPOB is talking about self-determination and self-actualization for where? When you own over half of the country.

“God may not give you everything. He has given something to you. That is the truth. Because of this, I am calling for this unity and fraternity among us. If the Igbo youth understand this, they will now know the need for peace and unity in the country.”

Politics

I am in support of IPOB’s agitation, says Wike

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state, has revealed that he supports the agitation of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and acknowledges that there is injustice against the South-East.

He made this known during an interview on Channels TV on Monday, May 2nd, 2022, noting that he is however, against the violence perpetrated by suspected IPOB members.

According to Wike, IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu used to sing his praises when he first declared support for the group’s agitation.

The governor said he started having issues with the secessionist group when they allegedly stormed Rivers state to set ablaze government properties and force indigenes to embrace their struggle.

He said; “There came a time that IPOB was singing praises about Wike. Nnamdi Kanu was singing praises about Wike, saying he is their son.

Why? I said to the federal government there is nothing wrong with people agitating. What is important is to listen to their agitations. What are they talking about? Sit down with them. Talk with them.

My problem came, which I will not compromise with. They came to my state and burnt every infrastructure — the courts and police stations. The state put money in building the courts and everything; you came and burnt everywhere. Not only are you burning everywhere, you said we (referring to Rivers state) are part of you. And I said ‘no, don’t do that’. That is not correct.

I support the agitation. I support that there is injustice against the south-east, whether anybody likes it or not. We should sit down and discuss it. What did I do wrong?

When you are now coming to say ‘burn everything there (referring to Rivers). We own everything. I’m a governor. I asked them a simple question — ‘do you need to kill everybody in my area and burn down the infrastructure simply for me to say I’m with you?’ I said no.”

Lifestyle

IPOB announces date to commence ban ‘on movement of Fulani cows’

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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) on Monday reiterated that the ban on cows outside of ranching will begin on April 27.

This was contained in a statement issued by the IPOB spokesman, Emma Powerful.

According to him, Igbos spend N3 trillion on cattle each year, and the ban will be enforced in the South-East beginning April 27, 2022.

Those interested in breeding cattle in the South-East should set up a ranching system, according to the separatist group.

The restrictions are intended at preventing Fulani extremists from devastating the South-East, Powerful noted.

We the global movement and family of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) under the command and leadership of our great leader Mazi Nnamdi KANU, wish to make the following clarifications concerning the ban on the movement of Fulani cows which will take effect from April 27, 2022.

“From April 27, 2022, we shall commence the enforcement of the ban on open grazing which has since been pronounced by South East Governors and passed into law by many States in Biafran land but the Nigeria security agencies have failed to enforce them. Thus, from the said date, no cows should be seen roaming the streets of Biafraland.

From April 27, 2022, anybody interested in cow business anywhere in Biafra land, must have a ranch and properly mark the cows. Cows seen outside ranches with effect from this date shall be treated as contraband products. Owners of such cows should blame themselves.

“Owners of cows and ranches should properly mark them with their ranch name or symbol for easy identification.

“The above measures have become necessary to stop the senseless and wanton killings in our land by Fulani jihadists masquerading as herdsmen. We want to stop the incessant invasion of our communities and raping of our mothers and sisters by Fulani herdsmen. Enough is enough!

“Our action is not targeted against any tribe. We are only taking this measure as a necessity for self-preservation.

“Igbo people alone in Biafraland spent more than N3 trillion Naira every year on cows. We, therefore, want to stop using our money to finance the genocidal attacks on our people by Fulani herdsmen. Let them keep their cows so that we may have our lives.

Politics

Soludo calls for dialogue with IPOB, to establish truth commission

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The Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, on Sunday called for dialogue with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and other aggrieved groups in addressing the agitations in the South-East.

Soludo, who made the call during a programme on Channels Television, Sunday Politics, said noting favourable can be achieved through the use of force.

The governor had last week directed all markets in the state to stop observing the sit-at-home order in the South-East.

IPOB had last year ordered markets and other business outlets in the region to stay at home every Monday in a bid to force the Federal Government to release its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, who is standing trial for an alleged treasonable felony at the Federal High Court, Abuja.

The group had since agreed to cancel the sit-at-home order throughout the region.

Soludo said: “A time comes when you realise that you cannot shoot an ideology with a gun. When you see it exclusively as a law enforcement matter, then you miss the point.

We got to engage them; we got to engage everyone to really understand the root of this.”

The governor also revealed that his administration would establish a truth and reconciliation commission in order to quell the agitations.

He added: “We don’t want to treat all these people as statistics. To the criminals, we are offering an olive branch to repent.

“So, to them, we are also saying ‘We are not condemning you, sin no more. Come out today, surrender those arms, we want to engage you back in society’.

“This is something that we need to engage very seriously and in an open manner to engage everyone, believing that everyone has something to contribute.”

Politics

IPOB is in no position to dictate to Gov. Soludo –Uche Mefor

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Former Deputy-Leader of proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Uche Mefor, has warned the group that it is in no position to dictate to the newly sworn-in Governor of Anambra State, Charles Soludo, insisting that the group has no option than to embrace dialogue being proposed by Soludo.

Soludo had, shortly after taking oath of office last week, sent an open invitation to IPOB, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and other agitating groups in the South-East region, to embrace dialogue as a way of resolving their grievances.

In a statement by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful on Sunday, the group said it was willing to work with the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), as long as he does not allow “himself to be used to oppress and persecute Biafrans.”

But in a response to the issues raised by IPOB, Mefor said they were in no position to tell Soludo what to do after they had accused the Governor of paying him (Mefor), N5bn to destroy the group in the past.

In a post on his Facebook page on Monday, Mefor wrote:

To you, IPOB-ESN, are you tired of your criminality, targeted assassinations of Igbo Biafrans? This is the soft landing that you need now or lose it for good——for you must get tired after the spirit of land must have finished dealing with all of you who supported this abomination and crimes against humanity against Igbo Biafrans (killing your brothers in the name of freedom).

“Isn’t it instructive that the same man, Prof Soludo, whom you lied and accused of giving Uche Mefor 5billion Naira to destroy IPOB is the same man that you are now shamelessly going back to and who will definitely lead a solution to stop you from your self-inflicted, self-inflicted destruction?

“So, you are now ready to work with politicians? But, of course, this is a fact that your leader, saviour and Messiah, Nnamdi Kanu, has been doing secretly and behind the scenes but unconsionably accusing innocent people of. What a hypocrisy!

In the circumstances, you are drowning and obviously have no choice than to embrace dialogue or perish, so stop bragging, Emma Powerful.

“Finally, here is a test for you: if you know that all these useless, cowardly, delusional conditions you are thoughtlessly dishing out is not that of an empty vessel and that you are not drowning, please continue with your criminality and don’t embrace dialogue.

“Whether you like it or not, you must eventually come back to our position of imbibing human rights principles and democratic ethos (either by proxy or otherwise).”

Politics

Stop blaming IPOB, carry your cross – Adamu Garba to Abba Kyari

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Former Presidential aspirant, Adamu Garba has said that suspended police officer, Abba Kyari should not blame members of the Indigenous People of Biafra for his ordeal.

It was reported earlier that Police arrested Kyari on Monday over drug trafficking allegation leveled against him.

However, while appearing before a probe panel, the former Head of Intelligence Response Team IRT, accused members of IPOB for being behind his travails.

He claimed that the proscribed secessionist group and its armed wing Eastern Security Network, ESN, were after him due to the onslaught launched against them in the South East.

In reaction to his statement, Garba said Kyari should face the consequences of his actions and desist from blaming the pro-Biafra group.

Taking to Facebook, he wrote; ”Abba Kyari should stop blaming IPOB or ESN even though we know who they are, but he should carry his cross because he acted as a common criminal and should be treated as one.”

Politics

IPOB accuses security agents, Ebubeagu of burning ‘Biafrans’ houses

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Outlawed Igbo separatist group, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has accused Nigerian security agencies and the South-East security outfit, Ebubeagu of burning houses owned by of ‘Biafrans’.

The group also threatened reprisal attacks over the matter.

In a statement by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the group warned that anyone involved in sponsoring and encouraging Nigerian soldiers and the Ebubeagu officials to burn houses of innocent people suspected to be its members or supporters of the Biafran agitation in the south-eastern states, especially Imo State, will never go free.

IPOB accused some South-East Governors of conniving with the security outfits to carry out the “acts of wickedness and genocide against Biafrans.”

Powerful added that “the wicked accomplices of the on-going genocide in Biafra land will soon pay for their treachery and cruelty to fellow citizens.”

The IPOB statement made available to Ripples Nigeria on Thursday, reads:

“IPOB will not allow this barbarity and cruelty to continue. We will avenge these unprovoked and needless attacks against houses of innocent Biafrans citizens.

“The mindless burning down of houses in our region by Nigerian security and Ebubeagu cannot go unreciprocated.

We warned against the formation of Ebubeagu in Biafran land. We knew they were coming to collude with the security agencies in killing our people. People ignored our warning, and today we have been vindicated.

“Our fears have come true but the wicked will not go free. For doing this to our people, we declare that the days of Ebubeagu in Biafra land are numbered. They will pay for what the military is using them to do against their fellow Biafrans.

In less than one week now, Nigerian Army has burnt down more than 30 homes of innocent citizens in Enugu, Imo and Ebonyi because they are Igbo members of IPOB and sympathisers of IPOB.

“Very soon, we will make public the total number of houses so far burnt down in different parts of Biafra land, especially in Enugu, Imo and Ebonyi states.

“We also want the governors of these states to take note, and not blame IPOB for any reprisal because we can’t fold our arms to allow criminals in security uniforms continue to commit genocide in Biafra land unchallenged.

“Since nobody is defending our hapless people, we shall not abandon them. Enough is enough!”

Lifestyle

Asari Dokubo recruiting Ijaw youths, cultists, to fight against Biafra, IPOB alleges

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The Proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has accused former Niger Delta militant leader, Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, of recruiting misguided Ijaw youths, cultists and some Niger Delta militants to fight against the actualization of Biafra.

In a statement issued by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful on Monday evening, the Igbo separatist group said Dokubo and some politicians who were againsts the group were “colluding with the Fulani security forces, the Presidency, evil politicians, including some governors in the South East region, to cause chaos and anarchy in Biafraland.”

IPOB also warned that the move by Dokubo and his co-conspirators “will be smoked out from his abode in Cotonou, Benin Republic, where he has been hiding.”

IPOB intelligence unit has uncovered plan about how Asari is moving around coastal areas of Biafra land recruiting cultists and demented fellows to join the wicked Nigeria security forces, evil politicians including some governors in the South East Region to attack people and blame it on IPOB and ESN operatives,” part of the statement made available to Ripples Nigeria reads in part.

“The public should know about this wicked plot in the coastal areas of Biafra by few enemies of Biafra restoration.

“They should never take us for granted. Biafrans living in both coastal area and hinterland are all part of our great nation.

“They must understand that Asari and his few traitors are trying to create confusion between Igbo Biafra and Izon (Ijaw) Biafra but we are waiting for his recruited boys.

“He should not think that we are cowards. Let him venture and see what we are capable of doing.

“Asari Dokubo has sealed his contract with the Nigeria Government and some South-East politicians in recruiting Ijaw youths to fight Biafra agitators in Biafra hinterland precisely IPOB and ESN operatives.

“IPOB has uncovered two camps Asari Dokubo opened in Bayelsa and Igweocha for the purpose of training the recruits.

“Some of the youths that were approached refused the offer, while some accepted the proposed monthly salary of 150,000 Naira.

Dokubo and his co travellers’ plan is to merge the Ijaw militant youths with Nigeria military and JTF.

“The new recruits will be provided with military uniforms and will be made to work with other security operatives to kill those agitating for the restoration of Biafra.

“We should not hesitate to officially notify the public and Biafrans through this press release especially PANDEF, Ijaw Youth Council, Elders and traditional rulers of Izon Kingdom and Ohaneze Ndigbo leaders, including all other tribal leaders across coastal land of Biafra, to call Asari Dokubo to order because we are ready for them at any time they may come.”

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