Key figures from the South East have strongly criticized the Sit-at-Home directive enforced by suspected members of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and their security wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). They argue that this unnecessary action has significantly harmed the region’s socio-economic health.
Operating under the Coalition of South East Professionals Network in Nigeria and Diaspora (CSEPNND), these stakeholders highlighted the loss of innocent lives and the detrimental impact on businesses caused by the secessionists’ activities.
The group specifically condemned the recent killing of soldiers at a military checkpoint in Aba, Abia State, which occurred approximately two weeks ago.
They called on authorities to lawfully apprehend those responsible, along with their supporters, and ensure they face justice.
This was as they charged the Finnish government, as well as the European Union (EU), to immediately activate measures leading to the repatriation of a fugitive, Simon Ekpa, who have continued denigrate the image and dignity of Nigeria.
The professionals conveyed their position in a statement signed on Wednesday by Prof O.C Madumere (National President); Mazi Uche Igbokwe (National Secretary), and Dr (Mrs) Chioma Maduka, (Coordinator, Women Wing).
While commending ongoing kinetic and non-kinetic actions by Operation Udo Ka, the group, which comprises intellectuals, politicians, entrepreneurs, and other prominent indigenes, the group urged South Easterners at home in the diaspora, to support the Military, in order root-out criminal elements terrorising the area.
The statement reads: “South East Professionals condemn in totality the mindless Sit-at-Home order declared and enforced by members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and their militant arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
“We regret to state that this development has continued to have negative effect on the socioeconomic and political lives of South East indigenes and residents, who suffer losses each time the aberration happens.
“As a people, we are known to be peaceful and hospitable, considering our entrepreneurial spirit, which makes us accommodating in every respect.
“It is noteworthy that whatever IPOB members are agitating for May have lost it’s steam and essence, against the backdrop of the fact that their brothers and sisters are the ones at the receiving end of their activities.
“Also deserving of our loud condemnation, is the recent attack on troops at a checkpoint in Aba, Abia State, resulting in the death of at least five soldiers, whose only “sin” was the protection of lives and property of indigenes.
“As a result of this dastardly act, and others across our states, we declare total support for Operation Udo Ka, and urge the Military to ensure that the enemies of South East are smoked out from wherever they may be hiding, and dealt with appropriately.
“We also use this opportunity to appeal to the government of Finland, and the European Union (EU), to repatriate the fugitive Simon Ekpa, who has continued to instigate violence from his hiding place, while disparaging the Nigerian State”.
Meanwhile, the CSEPNND has tasked political authorities in the zone, especially Governors, federal, and state lawmakers, and Ministers, on the compelling need to support the military in its quest to restore peace and order across the South East geo-political entity.
The group also passed a vote of confidence in the Military High Command, led by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa.
The statement concluded thus: “We are, by this statement, challenging our political office holders, especially Governors, Senators, members of House of Representatives, Ministers, and House of Assembly members, to show more commitment to the fight against insecurity, by providing funds and equipment to the military, and other security agencies operating in our land.
“There is the urgent need for South East states to set up internal security platforms, to complement the efforts of the military and other security agencies.
“We will not conclude without commending the untiring efforts made by the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ogalla, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Abubakar Hassan, to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty against violation”.
