The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has firmly denied allegations that its militia arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), is involved in kidnapping or ransom demands. The group refuted claims by a Taraba-based group that ESN operatives had kidnapped individuals and demanded a N20 million ransom.

Emma Powerful, the spokesman for IPOB, issued a statement addressing the allegations. He highlighted that on June 13th, 2024, ESN operatives intercepted foreign and local Fulani terrorists in Biafraland. The intercepted terrorists, who carried various charms and weapons, confessed to being sent to destabilize the region.

“These Fulani terrorists confessed that they were sent to camp in a certain location in Biafraland. They confessed that some of the terrorists are already on ground in Biafraland while others will also arrive soon,” said Powerful.

Powerful emphasized that ESN operatives acted to prevent the planned attack, dislodging the terrorists and sending them back to their origin. He dismissed claims from Taraba that ESN killed three individuals and demanded ransom for the release of nine others, labelling such reports as false. He further clarified that the men intercepted by ESN on June 12th, 2024, were not fishermen, as alleged.

Describing ESN operatives as well-trained and disciplined vigilantes, Powerful reiterated their mandate to protect Biafraland from marauding Fulani terrorists.