The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has denied allegations by the Department of State Services (DSS) that its security wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), planned to kidnap candidates participating in the ongoing West African Examinations Council (WAEC) examinations in the South-East.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB described the allegation as false and politically motivated, accusing the DSS of spreading misinformation to discredit the group.
The separatist movement maintained that neither IPOB nor ESN is involved in kidnapping, attacks on civilians, or any form of criminal activity. According to the group, its objective remains the pursuit of self-determination through peaceful and lawful means.
IPOB further stated that ESN was established to protect local communities from security threats and insisted that its operations are focused on defending lives and property rather than targeting innocent citizens.
The group also alleged that the claims were part of a broader effort to tarnish its image and influence public perception amid ongoing legal proceedings involving its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
While rejecting the allegations, IPOB called on the public and international observers to scrutinize claims made against the organization and focus on what it described as the core issues surrounding its agitation.
The DSS is yet to publicly respond to IPOB’s latest remarks. The development adds another layer to the ongoing exchanges between security agencies and the separatist group over security concerns and activities in the South-East region.
