By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
In a recent development, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has strongly refuted claims linking them or their Eastern Security Network (ESN) to the attack on Okigwe Correctional Centre in Imo State. This denial comes amidst allegations by the Imo State Command of the Nigeria Police Force suggesting ESN involvement in the incident.
According to a statement released by Emma Powerful, the Media and Publicity Secretary of IPOB, the group accuses Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration and the police of orchestrating the attack while implicating IPOB/ESN for ulterior motives.
Powerful emphasized, “Imo State Police is aware of those behind the alleged attacks at Okigwe Correctional Center, but because there is an agenda to blackmail IPOB/ESN, they had to pin the attack on IPOB.”
The statement raises questions about the swift attribution of the attack to IPOB/ESN without substantial investigation, alleging a pattern of manipulation by Nigerian authorities. Powerful also referenced a previous incident at the Owerri Correctional facility, suggesting a similar ploy was employed by the authorities.
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Furthermore, IPOB contends that the recent attack, which resulted in the release of seven prisoners, couldn’t have occurred without inside collaboration from government and security agencies. They assert that heavily fortified facilities like Okigwe Correctional Center would require significant resistance to be breached, questioning the ease with which the attack was executed.
The spokesperson highlighted the plight of innocent villagers caught in the crossfire between security forces and criminal gangs allegedly collaborating with the government. IPOB reiterated its commitment to peaceful advocacy for Biafran independence and distanced itself from any involvement in violent activities.
The statement concluded with a plea for the public to see through what IPOB perceives as government-sponsored attempts to vilify their movement and divert attention from underlying issues.
The latest developments underscore the escalating tensions between the indigenous people of Biafra and Nigerian authorities, adding another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation in the region.
