In a statement released by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful on Saturday, the group warned of possible retaliatory attacks against Igbos living in Northern states after the killing of individuals identified as Hausa hunters in Edo.
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued an advisory, urging Igbos residing in Northern Nigeria to urgently relocate to the South-East, citing growing threats of violence and insecurity following the recent killings in Edo State.
In a statement released by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful on Saturday, the group warned of possible retaliatory attacks against Igbos living in Northern states after the killing of individuals identified as Hausa hunters in Edo.
The Biafran group claims it has gathered credible intelligence pointing to an imminent threat to lives and property of Ndigbo in the North.
“Throughout history, violence in Northern Nigeria has often been directed at Igbos for events they had no part in. What we are seeing again is a disturbing pattern,” the statement said. “Only a tree sees the axe coming and still remains rooted.”
IPOB referenced past violence, particularly the 1966 pogroms, where thousands of Igbos were killed in the North, warning that history should not be allowed to repeat itself. “We urge our people not to become victims again. If you can’t leave with your properties, at least send your family members back home to Alaigbo,” the group stated.
The statement also accused the Nigerian security establishment of turning a blind eye to threats posed by certain Northern groups. Specifically, IPOB named two Fulani police officers—Hadaina Hussaini Taki and Isyaku Shehu Gano—as allegedly instigating attacks against Southerners.
The group called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately arrest and investigate the officers.
“If the DSS fails to act, it confirms the bias and complicity of Nigerian security agencies in the protection of violent groups in the North,” IPOB alleged. “It is clear that Northerners, particularly Fulani, enjoy a disturbing level of immunity, while Southerners are criminalized for far less.”
IPOB emphasised that their warning is not a call to violence, but a proactive measure for self-defense. The group noted that recent public statements from security officials, including the DSS Director, have affirmed that citizens cannot solely rely on state protection and may organise for self-defence.
“We are not begging them not to attack,” IPOB warned. “Try it, and see the response. No one has a monopoly on violence.”
The group urged Biafrans in the North to either return home or prepare to defend themselves if the situation escalates, adding that the Eastern Security Network (ESN) is better positioned to provide support within the South-East.
IPOB also used the opportunity to reiterate its commitment to the safety and development of Alaigbo, stating that the region is progressing rapidly and should no longer be abandoned for uncertain prospects in hostile environments.
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