A violent confrontation between the Nigerian military and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Imo State which gave rise to killing of persons has prompted the Nigerian government to declare some persons wanted.
The incident which happened in May 2013 resulting to the death of four persons have sparked off widespread condemnation and calls for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the clash.
IPOB, a secessionist group advocating for Biafran independence. The group’s activities have been a source of tension in the region, with the government cracking down on their operations. The 2013 clash was one of the earliest major confrontations between IPOB and the Nigerian military.
This newspaper learnt that a troupe of military operatives while on patrol in a community in Imo State, Umuaka, in Njaba LGA ran into a gathering of some youths suspected to be pro Biafran agitators leading to fierce exchanges of words before tempers rose leading to shooting that took the lives of four persons. While three soldiers were injured with one dying latter, three unarmed civilians died with others seriously injured.
The government of Imo state has also, declared Prince Udochukwu Nwachukwu wanted over his involvement and connection with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in the State
According to reports, Prince Nwachukwu registered as a full member of IPOB in 2013 and allegedly has been supporting the group financially through his uncle, Eze Nwachukwu.
This paper learnt that, Prince was alleged to have been mandated to register with the group in 2013, despite residing abroad. However, due to the government continued clampdown on the group, and information gathering, he was declared wanted by the government due to his financial involvement with the group.
Police have listed the names of four men from the group who escaped from the area, as Eze Nwachukwu, E.K, O.G Nwankwo, and Chukwudi Ikeme. Strong indications are rife through information gathering, that, Eze Nwachukwu’s nephew, Prince Nwachukwu who resides abroad was one of the financial sponsor of the group and now has been declared wanted.
The Imo State government, led by Governor Rochas Okorocha, has taken steps to maintain law and order in the state. In recent developments, measures have been taken to restore peace following clashes between security forces and members of IPOB. A dusk-to-dawn curfew was imposed in the 10 local government areas of the Imo West Senatorial District to curb further violence.
The clash has had a significant impact on the community, with many residents expressing fear and uncertainty about their safety. The incident has also raised concerns about the government’s approach to handling secessionist groups and the potential consequences for the region.
The 2013 clamp down on IPOB in Imo State remains a relevant topic in discussions about security and governance in Nigeria. Today, IPOB continues to be a point of contention, with some leaders facing terrorism charges and calls for extradition. The incident highlighted the tensions between the Nigerian government and secessionist groups, increasing ongoing debates about the handling of such groups.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
