The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has dismissed what it calls an attempt by the Nigerian government and security agencies to use the controversial Monday sit-at-home order to tarnish its image.
In a statement issued by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB reiterated its commitment to non-violent self-determination and renewed calls for the unconditional release of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The group alleged that despite its official suspension of the sit-at-home directive, security agencies had played a role in enforcing it, further exacerbating tensions in the South-East. IPOB accused the government of using economic disruptions caused by the protests as a means to turn the Igbo populace against the movement.
According to the statement, IPOB and its security arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), have been actively working to protect the South-East from external threats. It also claimed that certain criminal elements had been carrying out violent attacks under the guise of IPOB, aiming to discredit the group.
“The Nigerian Army and Police have been patrolling rural communities on Mondays, leading to the arrest of several youths. This has contributed to the continued enforcement of the sit-at-home order,” IPOB stated. “We officially suspended the directive after the first successful protest and have consistently condemned any violent enforcement.”
The group further alleged that some individuals had been recruited to engage in criminal activities under IPOB’s name but noted that such incidents had reportedly declined following recent arrests abroad.
IPOB maintained that the key to ending the sit-at-home protests lies in the release of Nnamdi Kanu and a genuine engagement with the concerns of the South-East. It urged the government to prioritize addressing security crises in other parts of the country instead of suppressing civil actions in the region.
“If the Nigerian Army is truly committed to national security, it should focus on tackling widespread security issues across the country rather than targeting peaceful civil movements,” the statement read.
The group also called on the federal government and South-East governors to engage in meaningful dialogue rather than resorting to force. IPOB emphasized that its struggle remains non-violent and urged authorities to recognize the legitimate grievances of the Igbo people.
Ipob
“The Nigerian government should embrace dialogue and consider peaceful resolutions,” IPOB stated. “The release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is central to addressing the issues fueling the sit-at-home protests.”
The sit-at-home directive was first introduced in 2021 as a protest demanding Kanu’s release. While IPOB later suspended the order, some factions continued enforcing it, causing economic and security concerns in the region.
Despite ongoing efforts to restore normalcy, many residents and businesses in the South-East still observe the sit-at-home for fear of violence. As the situation evolves, attention remains on the government’s response to IPOB’s demands and efforts to stabilize the region.
