The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has accused the Enugu State Government and the Nigerian Army of enabling insecurity in the South-East, alleging that the recent attack on a Catholic church in Udi Local Government Area forms part of a broader pattern of violence affecting the region.
The allegations were made during the first weekly address delivered on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, by Mazi Chris Nwaọgụ, Head of the 4th Administration of IPOB's Directorate of State. According to the group, the weekly broadcast is intended to provide regular updates on IPOB's activities and its campaign for the release of its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
IPOB Reacts to Enugu Church Attack
Commenting on the attack at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Inoyi, Affa community, Udi Local Government Area, during Sunday Mass on August 2, Nwaọgụ described the incident as a "theatre of terror."
He alleged that armed men invaded the church, abducted worshippers, including a seminarian, and left members of the congregation in distress. According to him, one abducted victim has since been found, while two others remain in captivity.
Allegations Against State Government and Military
Nwaọgụ alleged that the Enugu State Government and the Nigerian Army have failed to adequately address insecurity in the South-East, claiming that government actions have weakened community-based security initiatives while allowing criminal groups to operate.
He further alleged that authorities have focused on targeting the Eastern Security Network (ESN), which IPOB describes as its community security outfit, instead of confronting those responsible for violent attacks.
The IPOB official also criticized what he described as the government's silence over the church attack, arguing that the absence of a strong public response raised serious concerns.
IPOB Defends ESN
The group defended the activities of the Eastern Security Network, maintaining that its members continue to protect communities, churches, farms and residents across the South-East.
According to Nwaọgụ, ESN has prevented larger attacks in several communities but continues to face what IPOB describes as attempts by the authorities to portray it as a terrorist organisation.
He praised ESN operatives for what he called their commitment and sacrifices in safeguarding local communities.
Comments on Nnamdi Kanu's Detention
Nwaọgụ also linked the region's security challenges to the continued detention of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
He argued that criminal elements have exploited the situation since Kanu's arrest and extraordinary rendition in June 2021, while maintaining that his detention remains unlawful.
The IPOB official further questioned the legal basis of Kanu's conviction, arguing that issues relating to jurisdiction, due process and the validity of the charges remain unresolved.
Radio Biafra Homeland to Launch
IPOB announced that a new broadcasting platform, Radio Biafra Homeland, is scheduled to begin live transmissions later this week through its official website.
According to Nwaọgụ, the platform will serve as the movement's official communication channel following recent internal leadership changes.
He stated that only broadcasts carrying the "Radio Biafra Homeland" identity should be regarded as representing the current IPOB leadership, while alleging that former officials now operate separately under another platform.
Planned International Advocacy
The organisation also disclosed plans to hold a world press conference aimed at drawing international attention to what it described as human rights violations against IPOB members and supporters.
Nwaọgụ said the proposed event would focus on allegations of unlawful killings, disappearances, torture and prolonged detention involving Nigerian security agencies.
He further stated that IPOB continues diplomatic engagements in Jerusalem and Washington, claiming that discussions relating to the group's concerns have reached international policymakers.
IPOB Restates Demands
During the address, IPOB reiterated several demands, including:
- The immediate and unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and other individuals it describes as prisoners of conscience.
- Stronger action against armed criminal groups operating in the South-East.
- Recognition of what the organisation describes as the role of ESN in protecting communities.
- An end to policies the group alleges have contributed to insecurity in the region.
Weekly Campaign and Call for Unity
Nwaọgụ urged IPOB members and supporters to remain united, disciplined and committed to peaceful advocacy.
He also announced the introduction of a weekly social media mobilisation programme tagged "Compulsory Tweet Tuesday," encouraging supporters worldwide to post every Tuesday using the hashtags #FreeMaziNnamdiKanu and #FreeNnamdiKanu.
He described social media as an important platform for advancing the group's message and called on supporters to actively participate in the campaign.
Concluding the address, Nwaọgụ offered prayers for victims of insecurity, expressed support for ESN operatives, and reiterated IPOB's commitment to pursuing self-determination through what the group described as peaceful means.
He ended the broadcast with the declarations: "Biafra lives" and "The struggle continues."
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