The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has strongly rejected allegations made by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu that approximately 30,000 people have lost their lives as a direct result of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's activism in Nigeria's South-East region.
Senator Kalu's Controversial Claims
During an appearance on Channels Television's Politics Today program on Sunday, Senator Kalu, who represents Abia North, asserted that secessionist activities linked to the convicted IPOB leader had caused massive fatalities and economic damage throughout the South-East.
The lawmaker stated, "Do you know that over 30,000 Igbos were killed? People who have shops have lost their businesses. I used to sell my own manufactured products in Aba. I know what the numbers were."
IPOB's Forceful Rejection
In a press statement released on Tuesday, IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful categorically denied the senator's figures, demanding concrete evidence to support what he described as "false" and "irresponsible" claims.
Powerful declared, "The worldwide family and movement of the IPOB denounces the irresponsible and false claims from Senator Orji Uzor that 30,000 individuals lost their lives due to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's activism in the South-East region. This declaration arises from a malevolent spirit and a person who has chosen to barter his kin for selfish political gain."
The spokesman emphasized that IPOB and its leader have maintained non-violent principles despite facing military operations targeting their members.
Call for Independent Investigation
IPOB challenged the Federal Government to permit impartial investigations into the violence that has affected the South-East since 2015, noting that no independent inquiry has been allowed thus far.
The group's statement clarified, "IPOB urges Orji Uzor Kalu to present proof of his assertions. As far as Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB are concerned, we bear no responsibility for the death of any Igbo individual or the damage to businesses in the East."
Powerful attributed the insecurity and devastation in the region to orchestrated efforts by the Federal Government and certain South-Eastern politicians aiming to discredit IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
The controversy emerges shortly after Kanu's conviction on terrorism-related charges. Senator Kalu had emphasized the need for political solutions rather than continued public agitation, advocating for a comprehensive approach to resolving the ongoing crisis in the region.
