The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has assured Igbos living in the diaspora of their safety and protection should they choose to return home for the upcoming New Year celebrations.
In a statement issued by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, the group pledged that operatives of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) would work diligently to maintain a peaceful and secure atmosphere throughout the festive season.
“Alaigbo is a very peaceful region. IPOB encourages our people to return home and enjoy a peaceful festive season. ESN operatives will provide a peaceful atmosphere during the festive period. Our people should come home and contribute their best to ensuring that Alaigbo remains peaceful,” the statement read.
Emphasizing the strategic importance of peace and security in the Southeast, IPOB described the region as a vital economic hub in Africa. The group called on every Igbo man and woman to contribute towards sustaining peace and security in Alaigbo.
“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 appear to enjoy relative peace and security, our region is often subjected to occupation and subjugation by Nigerian security forces,” the statement added.
IPOB further criticized the Nigerian government for what it described as an overbearing presence of military and police checkpoints in the region, claiming that these checkpoints exacerbate insecurity and frustrate travelers.
“The uncountable numbers of Police and military extortion checkpoints are frustrating motorists and all travelers. IPOB calls for the dismantling of all indiscriminate military, police, and other checkpoints in the Southeast,” the group stated.
In a call to action for economic development, IPOB urged Igbos in the diaspora to return their investments to the Southeast to spur growth and create job opportunities for the region’s youth. The group reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of these investments.
“We are committed to ensuring that investments brought home are secure and well-protected,” IPOB assured.
The call from IPOB comes amidst heightened concerns over security in the Southeast, as the region continues to navigate complex political and economic challenges. The group’s pledge aims to encourage a robust return of diaspora Igbos, contributing to both the cultural vibrancy and economic resurgence of the region during the festive season.
