The Nigerian Army has condemned the recent warning by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) urging South East youths to boycott the ongoing recruitment exercise.
The military labelled IPOB’s message as an unpatriotic and reckless attempt to instill fear and undermine national unity.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Director of Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, criticised the separatist group for attempting to discourage participation in the 88 Regular Recruits Intake (RRI).
He reaffirmed that South East youths have consistently shown patriotism, filling quotas in military, paramilitary, and civil service positions, despite IPOB’s threats.
“The Nigerian Army finds it necessary to reaffirm that youths from the South East have, time and again, demonstrated unwavering patriotism and commitment by filling their quotas in various military and paramilitary recruitments, as well as in the civil service of federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs). Despite IPOB’s baseless threats, the ongoing registration for the 88 RRI has witnessed an encouraging turnout of applicants from the southeast,” Nwachukwu said.
He pointed out that Southeastern youths had proudly represented the region in recent military recruitments, including the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).
According to him, IPOB’s actions stand in stark contrast to the loyal service of these youths, who have pledged allegiance to Nigeria and are excelling in their roles.
“IPOB, by contrast, is nothing but a band of terrorists and militias responsible for dragging the region into economic ruin. Their senseless enforcement of illegal sit-at-home orders has crippled hitherto blossoming businesses and enterprise, while their involvement in kidnappings and killings has brought misery to the very people they claim to represent,” Nwachukwu added.
He urged South Eastern youths to reject IPOB’s rhetoric, stating that the group has done nothing but worsen the region’s suffering, calling them a “destructive force.”
He encouraged the youths to pursue careers in the military, which values merit above tribal, religious, or ethnic differences.
Nwachukwu also highlighted the military’s ongoing success in curbing IPOB’s activities, crediting the bravery and resolve of South Easterners serving in the armed forces.
“IPOB’s latest propaganda is nothing other than the wailing of a failing group, in desperation to remain relevant. Youths of the South East must remain resolute. Let no one rob you of your dreams and rights,” he concluded, calling IPOB’s actions “the last kicks of a dying man attempting to sabotage your future.”
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to peace and progress, positioning itself as a platform for self-advancement and national service for all Nigerian youths.
