IPOB Demands Soludo’s Resignation Over ‘99% Igbo Criminals’ Comment
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called for the resignation of Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, over his recent remark that “99% of arrested criminals in Anambra are Igbo.”
The separatist group described the governor as a “danger to Igbo survival” and said he was unfit to hold public office.
OSUN DEFENDER reported that Soludo made the controversial comment during a recent appearance in the United States, claimed that most cases of kidnapping and killings in the South-East were committed by Igbo youths, not Fulani herdsmen.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB said Soludo’s remarks were reckless and could incite violence against innocent youths.
“Soludo has opened the gates of hell with his treacherous and unconscionable remarks,” IPOB said.
“He has handed the enemies of Ndigbo a poisoned weapon laced with blood, a weapon that will be used to justify extrajudicial killings, mass arrests, illegal raids, and genocidal actions disguised as ‘security operations’.”
The group argued that the governor’s claim lacked any investigative basis and accused him of downplaying the threat of Fulani militias and state-backed violence in the region.
“What kind of leader, in the face of rampant Fulani herdsmen invasions and military atrocities against his people, turns around to accuse his own youths without evidence?” the group asked.
IPOB likened Soludo to Ukpabi Asika, the administrator during the Biafran War, and accused him of betraying the Igbo cause for political favour.
They also accused Soludo of abandoning efforts to secure the release of IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who remains in detention.
“Soludo’s real aim is now clear — to maintain favour with his Fulani masters by helping sustain the illegal and unconstitutional detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” the group said.
They noted that the governor had previously written in support of Kanu’s release but had now shifted position.
The group challenged Soludo to present evidence supporting his claim that 99% of violent crimes were committed by Igbo youths.
IPOB insisted that it remains a peaceful and lawful movement and has no link to kidnappings or killings in the region.
They warned the governor to stop what they called “dangerous rhetoric” and urged him to resign immediately.
“Such a man has no business in public office. He should resign and seek psychiatric help immediately,” the statement concluded.
Tensions have continued to rise in the South-East amid growing concerns over insecurity, military raids, and criminal violence.
The Nigerian government proscribed IPOB in 2017, but the group maintains it is non-violent and blames state agents for unrest in the region.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
