By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has accused Anambra State governor, Chukwuma Soludo, of deliberately attempting to foment insecurity in a bid to sabotage the ‘peaceful’ struggle for Biafra.

IPOB, which spoke in a statement signed by spokesman, Emma Powerful, was reacting to the deployment of armoured tanks and heavily armed police to enforce the closure of Onitsha Main Market on Tuesday.

Governor Soludo had ordered the closure of the market for one week after traders failed to open their shops on Monday due to the sit-at-home order in the South-East.

The IPOB statement reads: “The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the divine leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, strongly condemns the barbaric and unwarranted actions of Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, who has unleashed unruly military and police formations on innocent traders and protesters in Onitsha. In a blatant violation of human rights and democratic principles, these forces have opened live fire on peaceful demonstrators exercising their right to protest against the governor's draconian sit-at-home enforcement orders. This tragic incident is a stark reminder of how Nigerian authorities often initiate cycles of violence only to later falsely attribute them to IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

“We call on all well-meaning Nigerians, human rights organizations, and the international community to immediately caution Governor Soludo and warn the Nigerian police and army to desist from firing live ammunition into crowds of unarmed civilians. Such provocative tactics not only endanger lives but also exacerbate the very insecurity they claim to combat. Governor Soludo, by allowing himself to be manipulated as a tool in the hands of oppressors, has stained his hands with the blood of his own people. This is not governance; it is state-sponsored terrorism designed to undermine the legitimate aspirations of the Biafran people.

“IPOB remains committed to peace and a negotiated settlement that culminates in a democratic referendum on self-determination—the very cause for which our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has been unjustly imprisoned. We urge all protesters to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and resolute in the face of provocation. Violence is not our path; it is the weapon of those who fear the truth and the will of the people.

“The liberation of Biafra is nearer than ever, as prophesied by our indomitable leader. In his words: “If I have to go to Sokoto, the seat of the Caliphate, to set Biafra free from our bondage, then I shall do so.” Indeed, the Almighty God has twisted the heart of Omotosho, like Pharaoh of old, to send Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to Sokoto, fulfilling this divine prophecy. Governor Soludo’s reckless actions have only ignited the fire that will propel us inexorably toward the promised land of Biafra—a sovereign nation where justice, equity, and prosperity reign.

“We warn that any further aggression against peaceful Biafrans will only hasten the inevitable collapse of the oppressive structures holding our people captive. The world is watching, and history will judge those who choose violence over dialogue. Biafra Lives! No Retreat, No Surrender!”

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