The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has strongly criticized Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, for publicly associating the rise in kidnappings in the South-East region with Igbo youths. The group described Soludo’s comments as reckless and inflammatory, warning that such statements could jeopardize the safety of innocent individuals in the area.
During a recent address to Anambra indigenes in Maryland, United States, Governor Soludo reportedly asserted that “99% of arrested kidnappers in the state were Igbos and not Fulani herdsmen.” This claim has sparked outrage from IPOB, whose Director of Media and Publicity, Emma Powerful, responded swiftly on Thursday.
In a statement, IPOB accused Soludo of issuing a dangerous “green light” for security forces and purported Fulani militias to intensify their operations against Igbo youths, potentially leading to extrajudicial killings and unlawful detentions. “This public utterance, made without an iota of investigative backing, has now become the green light for the Nigerian security agencies and Fulani-sponsored terror militias to commence another round of massacre and abductions of innocent youths across the South-East,” the statement read.
The group further questioned the governor’s motives, suggesting that he was prioritizing political ambitions and currying favor with the ruling elite at the expense of his people’s welfare. IPOB challenged Soludo to provide any verified evidence or convictions supporting his claims, reaffirming their stance as a peaceful, non-violent organization advocating self-determination.
Moreover, IPOB accused the governor of undermining efforts to secure the release of their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who remains unlawfully detained despite Soludo’s previous public calls for his freedom. The group concluded by urging the people of Anambra and the entire South-East to remain vigilant and discern who truly threatens their security.
Okay.ng reports that this development adds another layer of tension to the already volatile security situation in the region, highlighting the fragile relationship between political leadership and ethnic advocacy groups.
