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IPOB Challenges Senator Kalu’s Death Toll Claim Amidst Rising Regional Tensions
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has strongly contested the assertion made by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu that the activism of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has resulted in the deaths of more than 30,000 Igbos in Nigeria’s South-East. IPOB labeled the senator’s statement as “unfounded” and “reckless,” urging for credible evidence to back such grave allegations.
Senator Kalu’s Statement on Regional Casualties and Economic Impact
During a recent interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Senator Kalu, who represents Abia North, attributed significant loss of life and economic downturn in the South-East to the separatist activities associated with the convicted IPOB leader. He remarked, “Over 30,000 Igbos have perished. Many business owners have seen their livelihoods destroyed. I personally sold my manufactured goods in Aba and witnessed the scale of the devastation.”
IPOB’s Rebuttal and Call for Evidence
Responding swiftly, IPOB’s spokesperson Emma Powerful issued a statement on Tuesday, denouncing the senator’s figures as baseless and politically motivated. He emphasized, “The global IPOB community rejects Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s falsehoods that 30,000 lives were lost due to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s activism in the South-East. Such claims stem from malicious intent and a willingness to sacrifice our people for personal political advantage.”
Allegations of State-Sponsored Violence and Political Manipulation
Powerful further asserted that the violence and insecurity plaguing the South-East have been instigated by the Federal Government in collaboration with certain regional politicians aiming to tarnish the reputation of IPOB and its security wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). “The reality is that IPOB and Mazi Nnamdi Kanu have been victims of relentless military offensives, state-backed violence, and targeted killings,” he added.
Demand for Independent Inquiry into South-East Violence
The group also urged the Federal Government to permit an impartial investigation into the unrest and fatalities in the South-East since 2015, highlighting the absence of any transparent probe to date. “We challenge Senator Kalu to substantiate his claims with verifiable data. IPOB and Mazi Nnamdi Kanu bear no responsibility for any loss of life or economic damage in the region,” the statement concluded.
Context: Senator Kalu’s Remarks Following Kanu’s Conviction
Senator Kalu’s comments came shortly after the conviction of Nnamdi Kanu on terrorism-related charges. The former governor of Abia State stressed the importance of political dialogue over continued agitation, advocating for a comprehensive strategy to address the ongoing crisis in the South-East.
He remarked, “Similar to the approach proposed by Bianca Ojukwu and Mascot Kalu, it is time to cease the noise and concentrate on negotiating a settlement with the Federal Government. I have been actively engaging with federal authorities to find a resolution to this issue.”
Looking Ahead: The Need for Constructive Engagement
As tensions persist, the call for transparent investigations and peaceful negotiations remains critical. With the South-East region facing complex socio-political challenges, stakeholders emphasize that sustainable peace hinges on dialogue, accountability, and inclusive governance.
