The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called on Ndigbo in Nigeria and the Diaspora to return to the South-East for the Christmas festivities, assuring them of adequate security throughout the Yuletide season.
The pro-Biafran group asserted that the region remains Nigeria’s “most tranquil” zone and claimed security conditions have improved despite what it described as “sponsored instability” over the past four years.
In a statement on Sunday, IPOB spokesperson, Emma Powerful, urged residents and returnees to disregard what he termed propaganda against IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
He insisted both groups, with the support of the people, have played key roles in maintaining security. “The worldwide family and movement of the IPOB, expertly guided by our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, urges Ndigbo in Nigeria and abroad who plan to come home for the Christmas festivities to do so, as ESN operatives and IPOB volunteers will ensure security throughout the entire South-East region,” the statement read in part.
The group also dismissed recent social media reports about an alleged kidnapping along the Owerri–Aba Expressway, describing circulated footage as “old” and “false”.
It noted that ESN operations are conducted discreetly and warned the public not to expect updates on social media, adding that ESN has no official online accounts.
Powerful stated, “The absence of continuous killings and abductions in the South-East region serves as evidence that there are ‘Lions’ guarding the land.”
Accusing the Federal Government and some Igbo politicians of unsuccessfully attempting to “break up” IPOB and ESN, Powerful said the Biafra restoration movement remained “a sacred initiative”.
The statement further encouraged Ndigbo to return home in large numbers for Christmas and to invest in the region, urging them not to allow fear or insecurity narratives to discourage their visit. IPOB maintained that the South-East is peaceful because Ndigbo are “inherently peaceful” and reiterated its commitment to ensuring a secure environment for the holiday season.
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