The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called on Igbos to prepare for self-defense following the recent killing of Northern travelers in Uromi, Edo State.
In a statement released by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB alleged that certain Arewa groups are inciting violence against Igbos and Christians in the North in response to the incident.
The group also issued a cautionary message to the Hausa community, urging them to avoid being drawn into ethnic conflicts that could be detrimental to them.
The statement reads in part: “The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) seeks to alert the Arewa group in Northern Nigeria, emphasizing that some of their leaders and individuals are inciting violent attacks against the Igbos and Christians. They must immediately cease their planned assaults.
“We have received intelligence that certain groups have organized attacks against Ndigbo in the North as a reaction to the alleged killing of Hausa hunters in Edo State.
“However, native Hausas must be wary of being manipulated into ethnic conflicts by the same Fulani elements who have historically caused harm to them and others.
“Our sources confirm that some individuals have begun issuing threats against Ndigbo in the North. Additionally, we have received reports that Fulani criminals have killed an innocent man, Uche Abagana, in Kofa Ruwa, Kano, as retaliation for the Edo State incident. We must clarify that Ndigbo did not harm the Hausa travelers moving from Edo State to the North.
“For years, Ndigbo in the North have suffered disproportionately in ethnic conflicts. We call on Indigenous Northerners to act with caution. The Fulani leadership must refrain from inciting Hausas against Ndigbo over the unfortunate mob incident in Edo State.
“IPOB urges Ndigbo living in Northern Nigeria to remain highly vigilant, law-abiding, and prepared to protect themselves against any potential threats. Similarly, Ndigbo in Biafra Land must stay alert. Given the evident ethnic bias of Nigeria’s security forces, which prioritize the safety of the Fulani over indigenous Nigerians, particularly the Hausas, it is crucial for our people to be prepared for self-defense.”
