The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has warned residents of the South East, urging them to desist from promoting the activities of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), particularly on social media.
Speaking during a strategic community engagement held in Omor, Anambra East Local Government Area, General Musa, represented by Group Captain Ibrahim Bukar, Deputy Director of Defence Media Operations, stressed that the circulation of unverified or inflammatory content not only endangers the region but also threatens national peace and cohesion.
The visit, which included a courtesy call on the traditional ruler, Obi Eze Ana-Uku, Eze Igulube of Omor, formed part of the military’s people-centered outreach under Operation Udoka.
General Musa condemned the spread of falsehoods by IPOB and other outlawed elements, describing their actions as a danger not just to the South East but to Nigeria as a whole.
“People should have trust in the military, because the military belongs to them,” he said, adding that, “They should always provide us with actionable information. When you see something, say something. It is only through such cooperation that we can effectively tackle insecurity and restore peace.”
He assured the community that the military’s operations are impartial and focused solely on rooting out criminal elements.
“We are only after the bad elements and are here to protect law-abiding citizens,” he added. “In the event of communal conflicts, our aim is to restore peace—not to take sides.”
He reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to its constitutional role of safeguarding the nation, stressing that peace and stability are critical to economic prosperity.
Responding, the traditional ruler, Eze Igulube of Omor, commended the military’s dedication to security and praised the impact of their presence in the community.
“The commitment and bravery of the Armed Forces in ensuring peace in our community have not gone unnoticed,” the monarch said. “Our people are predominantly farmers—peace-loving and accommodating. We are ready to offer credible intelligence that will support your mission and enhance the security of our land.”
He pledged the community’s full support to security agencies in the ongoing efforts to maintain peace across the region.
