IPOB Speaks Out: ‘We’re Not Behind Mbano Killings, Security Agencies Are’

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has firmly denied any involvement in the recent attack that claimed several lives in Umualuaku community, Ehime Mbano LGA, Imo State.

The attack, which occurred early Wednesday, saw gunmen storm the community, shooting indiscriminately and forcing residents to stay indoors. The Imo State Police Command quickly pointed fingers at IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), blaming them for the killings.

However, IPOB, through its spokesperson Comrade Emma Powerful, has fired back, describing the police accusation as false, baseless, and politically motivated.

“This is a tired narrative that the government uses to cover up what we believe are state-sponsored killings meant to criminalize our movement,” IPOB said in a statement issued Saturday.

According to the group, each time legal discussions surrounding the possible release of their detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, gain public attention, such attacks mysteriously occur in the Southeast — and IPOB is quickly blamed.

“This isn’t a coincidence,” the statement continued. “These killings are orchestrated to tarnish our image, distract the public, and justify continued persecution of our leader.”

IPOB alleges that the real masterminds are “fifth columnists” working inside Nigeria’s security agencies and backed by complicit Southeast political leaders who, according to them, “betray their people for federal favours.”

The group called on the Nigerian police to present concrete evidence in court if it believes IPOB or ESN was behind the killings, rather than relying on media statements.

“We challenge the Nigerian government to stop using violence and propaganda against our cause. IPOB had no hand in the Mbano killings,” Emma Powerful added.

The group vowed to continue pushing for justice and the release of Nnamdi Kanu, saying that every act of repression only strengthens their resolve.

“We hold the Nigerian state and its Southeast collaborators responsible. The blood of the innocent will not be forgotten,” IPOB concluded.

This latest development adds fuel to the already tense atmosphere in the region, as security concerns continue to rise alongside the growing agitation for Biafra.