By Joe Udo
OWERRI (CONVERSEER) – The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has urged the Nigeria Police Force to provide full protection for peaceful demonstrators expected to participate in the nationwide #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protests on 20 October.
In a statement issued on Saturday by its spokesperson, Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB advised the police to uphold professionalism and impartiality in their conduct during the demonstrations. The group stressed that the integrity of the police institution depends on the fair and unbiased enforcement of the law.
IPOB expressed concern over previous incidents where security operatives allegedly infiltrated peaceful protests using hired provocateurs to instigate violence and undermine legitimate civic movements.
“IPOB urges the Nigeria Police Force to guard against such practices during this period,” the statement read. “Such tactics, if repeated, would not only violate the rights of Nigerians but also betray the very constitutional principles the Police have pledged to uphold.”
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The group clarified that the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign was not organised by IPOB. According to the statement, the movement is a broad-based civic effort driven by human rights activists and pro-democracy advocates, including Omoyele Sowore and his team, who have publicly committed to peaceful advocacy for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
“IPOB, as a lawful and peace-loving movement, fully supports this democratic initiative and shares in its call for justice, freedom, and accountability,” the statement added.
Reiterating its commitment to peace and lawful conduct, IPOB directed its members to remain calm, respect court orders, and avoid any form of confrontation during the demonstrations. It emphasised that the agitation for Kanu’s release cuts across ethnic, religious, and political lines, representing a universal call for justice and the rule of law.
Powerful urged the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that protesters are “protected, not provoked or persecuted,” noting that the conduct of security agencies would serve as “a litmus test for Nigeria’s adherence to democratic norms.”
“IPOB remains unwavering in its commitment to non-violence, lawful advocacy, and the pursuit of justice,” the group stated. “We pray for God’s protection over all participants in this noble struggle for truth and freedom. Let peace prevail, and let those who profit from chaos and oppression be exposed by the collective unity of a people yearning for justice.”
