The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has vehemently denied involvement in the recent killings in the Mbano area of Imo State, instead pointing fingers at Nigerian security agencies for what they described as "state-sanctioned mass murder and political manipulation."
Several persons were reportedly killed when gunmen invaded Umualuaku community in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State on Wednesday morning. The attack allegedly lasted for several hours with gunmen firing indiscriminately, forcing residents to remain indoors for safety.
ASP Henry Okoye, spokesman of the Imo State Police Command, had attributed the attack to suspected members of IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
However, in a statement released on Saturday by its spokesman, Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB condemned the attack and distanced both its members and the ESN from the incident.
"The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) condemns in the strongest terms the barbaric massacre of innocent civilians in Mbano, Imo State, reportedly carried out by gunmen who the Nigerian security agencies, without evidence or investigation, have as usual rushed to blame on IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN)," the statement read.
IPOB claimed that the killings were part of a pattern that emerges whenever legal arguments for the release of their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, gain momentum in court and public discourse. The group alleged that these "orchestrated killings" are designed to discredit IPOB and divert public attention.
"This latest killing spree is not the work of IPOB. It is the handiwork of faceless fifth columnists—operatives embedded within the Nigerian security services—who slaughter our people to criminalise Biafra agitation and delegitimise the just struggle for our collective freedom," the statement continued.
The group also directed criticism at Southeast governors, accusing them of complicity and challenging the Nigerian police to present evidence in court rather than through press statements if they believe IPOB or ESN is responsible.
"Let it be known to the world: IPOB is not responsible for the killings in Mbano or anywhere else. The real criminals are those who profit from bloodshed, who fear justice, and who believe that power can only be maintained through lies, bullets, and blackmail," the statement added.
The incident comes amid ongoing tensions in the Southeast region, where security concerns have remained a significant challenge for both residents and authorities.
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