IPOB Calls on Odimma Orsu Initiative to Support Demand for Independent Forensic Probe Into Imo Insecurity

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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called on the Odimma Orsu Initiative described by the group as political allies of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma to support its demand for an independent forensic investigation into the causes of insecurity in Imo State and the wider South-East region.

In a statement issued by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, the movement alleged that the Odimma Orsu Initiative has been campaigning against the release of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, while remaining silent during years of violence attributed to armed groups operating in Orsu and surrounding communities.

IPOB Reiterates Past Warnings on Criminal Impersonation

According to the statement, IPOB maintains that criminal groups operating under names such as the Biafra Liberation Army have for years misused the identities of IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) to commit attacks and extort communities. IPOB states that it has repeatedly issued public condemnations through press releases and Radio Biafra broadcasts since 2021, distancing itself from the activities of these groups.

The movement also referenced past radio appearances by IPOB Directorate of State (DOS) member Mazi Chinasa Nworu, who it said repeatedly identified individuals allegedly responsible for violence across Orsu, Orlu, and other affected areas of the South East.

IPOB claims that these warnings were ignored by both the Nigerian Government and the Imo State authorities.

Questions Raised Over Selective Outrage

The group criticized the renewed activism of the Odimma Orsu Initiative, questioning its absence during periods when armed groups were reported to have operated freely within Orsu communities.

IPOB argues that the group's current stance appears politically motivated, claiming that their position strengthens what IPOB describes as long-standing attempts to link its members to unrest in the region.

Call for Independent Forensic Investigation

In its statement, IPOB insisted that the only credible path forward is a transparent, independent forensic investigation into insecurity in Imo State from 2021 to date. The group asserts that such an inquiry would clarify the roles of various actors including state and non-state entities and determine responsibility for violence.

IPOB maintains that its organization has not participated in killings or property destruction in the South East, stating that its focus remains the protection of communities across the region.

Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention and IPOB’s Position

The movement reiterated its position that its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has not committed any offense, describing him as “a prisoner of conscience.” It insists that calls opposing his release are misplaced, as his case is already within the jurisdiction of the courts and relevant authorities.

IPOB Reaffirms Non-Violence

While emphasizing that it has remained peaceful, IPOB claims that multiple armed actors—including state security agencies and government-backed militias—bear responsibility for the violence in parts of the South East. These claims have not been independently verified.

The statement concluded with a renewed call for stakeholders, including the Odimma Orsu Initiative, to prioritize truth and accountability by supporting a full forensic inquiry.