The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a stern warning to the people of the South East, specifically those in Abia State, regarding what it describes as a budding political alliance between Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu. In a statement released by the group’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, and shared with Reports, the movement urged residents to be vigilant against political maneuvers that could threaten the current stability of the region.
The group expressed deep concern that certain politicians are plotting to return the state to an era of godfatherism and stagnation. According to the statement, Abia State is finally witnessing a period of “light” and genuine progress under the current administration of Governor Alex Otti, following nearly 24 years of what they described as obscurity. IPOB cautioned that the intentions of these political figures are to dismantle the development initiatives currently benefiting the populace.
Reflecting on the state’s political history, the movement pointed out that the legacy of governance from 1999 up until 2023 left much to be desired. They alleged that the network of godfatherism established over the decades drained the state both economically and socially, leaving iconic commercial hubs like Aba in a state of neglect. The group noted that businesses were forced to flee due to a lack of infrastructure and basic services during those previous administrations.
The statement further emphasized that the people of the South East should prioritize leaders who focus on community growth rather than those seeking unrestricted access to the public treasury. IPOB drew a comparison to the era of the late Dee Sam Onunaka Mbakwe, who managed to develop massive infrastructure across the old Imo and Abia states with far fewer resources than what modern governors have at their disposal.
As the 2027 elections approach, the movement has labeled certain political actors as “no-go individuals,” vowing to peacefully obstruct any attempt to revert the state to its “grim past.” They praised the current efforts to restore the glory of Aba and other towns in Abia, insisting that the residents are not ready to be led back to a system that failed them for over two decades.
IPOB concluded by calling on the “virtuous citizens” of the region to reject manipulative politics and support leadership that is clearly dedicated to the welfare of the people. They maintained that the progress seen in the last two years must be protected from those they described as adversaries of advancement.
