In response to recent reports linking the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) to alleged criminal activities in Imo State, IPOB wishes to address what it views as a continuous pattern of misinformation propagated through state-aligned media platforms.

A report circulated earlier today, claiming that security forces busted “IPOB/ESN syndicates” in Imo State. IPOB categorically rejects this narrative and calls for a more transparent and fact-based approach to reporting on security incidents in the South East.

Concerns Raised by IPOB

1. Premature Attribution Without Evidence
IPOB notes that within hours of any violent incident in the region, law enforcement often attributes responsibility to IPOB or ESN, without releasing verifiable evidence, forensic reports, or formal charges. This practice, IPOB argues, amounts to “guilt by label,” rather than due process.

2. Ignored Denials and Contradictory Evidence
Despite numerous public denials from IPOB—such as those refuting allegations about attacks or explosives in Imo State—many media outlets fail to update or correct their reports, contributing to a one-sided narrative.

3. Politicized Timing of Media Reports
According to IPOB, negative coverage frequently intensifies ahead of legal proceedings involving its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, suggesting a deliberate media strategy to sway public opinion and judicial outcomes.

4. Alleged Political Interference and Narrative Framing
IPOB further claims that some state actors and political figures may be influencing public narratives around insecurity in the South East to justify increased military presence and discredit the organization.

IPOB’s Public Demands

  • Transparency and Due Process:
    Security agencies should publish forensic evidence, arrest records, and court filings to support any claims made against IPOB or ESN.

  • Avoiding Mislabeling:
    Authorities and the press should clearly distinguish between IPOB, other separatist groups, and unaffiliated armed actors often referred to as "unknown gunmen."

  • Independent Inquiry:
    IPOB advocates for a neutral investigative panel involving civil society and international observers to examine patterns of insecurity and media bias in the South East.

  • Media Responsibility:
    Media outlets including Punch, Vanguard, Channels TV, and others are urged to adhere to journalistic ethics—ensuring balanced reporting, right of reply, and timely corrections when errors are made.

IPOB’s Position on Peace and Security

IPOB reiterates that it remains committed to a peaceful, democratic struggle for the self-determination of the Igbo people. The ESN, it states, was established for community defense, not aggression. IPOB also pledges cooperation with legitimate security efforts aimed at combating criminality—while opposing what it sees as state-backed repression and propaganda.