The Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a warning to Ndigbo across Nigeria, advising them to refrain from participating in the ongoing nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest.
The pro-Biafran group has emphasised the importance of heightened security awareness and the protection of lives and property during and after the protests.
In a statement released on Thursday, IPOB, through its spokesman Emma Powerful, claimed to have received a security report indicating plans by security agencies to target Ndigbo during the protests. The group also alleged that there were schemes to sponsor criminal elements in the South-East to incite violent protests, providing a pretext for security agencies to attack Ndigbo.
The statement reads, “Ndigbo should be cautious and aware that they are targeted across Nigeria. The false accusations against IPOB and Mr. Peter Obi by the Federal Government, alleging they are the sponsors of the protest, are part of a sinister agenda to target Ndigbo.”
IPOB reiterated that neither they nor any other Igbo groups, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, had called for the protest against the Nigerian government’s poor performance. They warned that such accusations were false flag operations aimed at justifying attacks on Ndigbo.
The group acknowledged the economic hardships faced by Ndigbo, similar to other Nigerians, but emphasised that Ndigbo are often victimised during protests. IPOB urged Ndigbo to only support protests for the release of their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and a call for a UN-supervised referendum on Biafra’s independence.
“Our focus is on President Bola Tinubu releasing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and setting a date for a Biafran referendum. Ndigbo must protect themselves and their properties against potential threats from hoodlums and tribal bigots during the protests,” the statement added.
IPOB also stressed the need for every Igbo person across Nigeria to remain on high alert, asserting that Ndigbo would likely be the primary targets of any federal government action during the protests. “Do not become a victim,” the statement concluded.
