Mbano, Imo State — July 22, 2025
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has strongly denied allegations by the Nigeria Police Force linking it and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), to last week’s deadly attack in Umualuaku, Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
Gunmen had reportedly stormed the community on Wednesday morning, killing several residents during an hours-long shooting spree that left many traumatized and forced locals to remain indoors.
Following the incident, the Imo State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Henry Okoye, accused IPOB and ESN of being responsible for the assault. However, in a statement issued on Saturday by IPOB’s spokesperson, Comrade Emma Powerful, the group categorically denied any involvement and condemned what it described as an “orchestrated narrative” used to justify violence and political repression.
“The Nigerian security agencies, without evidence or investigation, have as usual rushed to blame IPOB and ESN. This is a tired, manufactured narrative that now serves as a wicked cover for state-sanctioned mass murder and political manipulation,” the statement read.
“Pattern of Repression” Linked to Nnamdi Kanu’s Legal Battles
IPOB alleged that the timing of the attack is part of a deliberate campaign to sabotage growing calls for the release of its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
“Each time legal arguments for the release of our leader gain momentum in court, the Nigerian state resorts to violence and bloodshed in the Southeast,” the group claimed, accusing “fifth columnists” within the security services of staging attacks to criminalize the Biafra movement.
The group also criticized political leaders in the Southeast, accusing them of being complicit in the bloodshed and more concerned with currying favor with the federal government than defending their people.
Call for Evidence and Legal Accountability
IPOB challenged the Nigerian Police to present tangible evidence in court if they have any proof of its involvement, rather than relying on public statements to shape opinion.
“Let the world take note: IPOB is not responsible for the killings in Mbano or anywhere else… We challenge the Nigerian police to present evidence in a court of law—not press statements,” Emma Powerful said.
The group pledged to remain focused on its legal and advocacy campaigns, particularly the ongoing judicial process concerning Nnamdi Kanu, and vowed not to be silenced by what it described as “false flag operations” or “government-sponsored killings.”
“Every innocent life lost cries out for justice. And that justice will surely come,” the statement concluded.
Background
Recent weeks have seen a spike in violence in parts of the Southeast, with multiple incidents of armed attacks and alleged extrajudicial killings. Amid this climate, IPOB has repeatedly asserted its commitment to non-violence while accusing federal forces and local collaborators of targeting civilians to discredit the movement.
As investigations continue, there remains growing tension between government authorities and pro-Biafra activists, particularly surrounding the fate of Nnamdi Kanu, whose legal battles continue to stir national and international attention.
