The Ongoing Crisis in Nigeria’s South-east
Nigeria’s South-east region has long been a hotspot for violence, largely fueled by the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). This group has been advocating for an independent state of Biafra, which would be carved out from the South-east and parts of the South-south. Their leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is currently facing a terrorism trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Kanu, a Nigerian-British citizen, was first arrested in 2015 during the administration of then-President Muhammadu Buhari. In 2017, he fled Nigeria after security forces invaded his family home in Afara-Ukwu, Abia State. He was later repatriated from Kenya to Nigeria under controversial circumstances in June 2021.
The separatist group declared a sit-at-home order in August 2021, which was intended to protest Kanu’s detention and pressure the government to release him. Although this order was eventually suspended following public outcry, some factions of IPOB, particularly Autopilot IPOB led by Simon Ekpa, continued to enforce it. Despite Kanu’s instructions to stop, Ekpa persisted in enforcing the illegal order.
Simon Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish citizen, was recently jailed for terrorism in Finland. His actions have contributed to a climate of fear and instability in the region. Several people have been killed, abducted, or injured by gunmen who enforce the illegal order. Businesses, farms, and healthcare services have all suffered as a result of these attacks.
Although the sit-at-home order has waned in some areas, frequent attacks, killings, and abductions continue to plague the region. The Kanu-led faction of IPOB denies any involvement in these attacks, claiming that criminals are using the group as a cover to blackmail them.
Notable Atrocities Linked to IPOB
Killing of Ahmed Gulak
On 30 May 2021, political adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Ahmed Gulak, was shot dead by gunmen in Owerri, Imo State while on his way to Sam Mbakwe Airport. The police later accused members of IPOB and ESN of being responsible for the killing.
Killing of INEC Official
In 2023, gunmen claiming to be Biafra agitators killed Anthony Nwokorie, an INEC official conducting voter registration in Imo State. The attack occurred on 14 April 2022 at Nkwo Ihitte, where several officials and registrants were targeted.
Beheading of Two Soldiers
One of the most shocking incidents linked to IPOB was the abduction and beheading of two soldiers in May 2022. The victims, Sergeant A. M. Linus and his unidentified wife, were shot and beheaded by gunmen who claimed to be uncomfortable with security forces fighting Biafra agitators.
Beheading of a Serving Lawmaker in Anambra
On 21 May 2022, Okechukwu Okoye, a serving lawmaker in Anambra House of Assembly, was abducted and beheaded along with his aide, Cyril Chiegboka. The attack took place six days after they were kidnapped in Anaocha Local Government Area.
Killing of Traditional Ruler
Ignatius Asor, the traditional ruler of Obudi, Agwa, was killed in November 2022 when suspected IPOB members invaded his community. The attackers disguised themselves as people in distress and gained entry into his palace.
Invasion of Palace in Nigeria, Killing of Another Traditional Ruler
In July 2023, gunmen shot and killed Nnamdi Mmirioma, the traditional ruler of Ezuhu na Amadi Autonomous Community in Imo State. The attack took place when hoodlums invaded his palace.
Killing of DPO, Police Inspector
In November 2023, two police officers were killed at Ahiara Junction in Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area. The suspects were believed to be IPOB members.
Killing of PDP House of Reps Candidate
Jude Oguejiofor, a former House of Representatives candidate from Anambra State, was abducted and killed in February 2024. He was accused of writing petitions against IPOB activities in the community.
Killing of Youths in Imo
In June 2024, six people were killed in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State by suspected IPOB members. The attackers were linked to the group’s armed wing, ESN.
Attack on Police Facility
Also in June 2024, gunmen attacked Ishieke Divisional Police Headquarters. Five of the attackers were later confirmed killed by Nigerian Army troops.
Killing of Soldiers in Abia
On 30 May 2024, about four soldiers were killed in Aba, Abia State, by gunmen enforcing a sit-at-home order. The incident highlights the ongoing instability in the region.
