• State govt lists measures to check insecurity, influx of criminals

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) said it is being unfairly accused and blamed for insecurity plaguing Imo State, stressing that emerging information has vindicated its position.
  
This was contained in a statement by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful. The group referred to a viral video in which an individual, allegedly known as “Gentle Yahoo,” claimed involvement in criminal activities in Imo State.
 
The statement said the individual made allegations about being influenced by certain actors with vested interests. IPOB stated that the video supports its repeated denials of involvement in the insecurity in the region.
  
“IPOB, once again, asserts that its members are not responsible for the insecurity, kidnappings, or other criminal activities in Imo State. “The video circulating online, which features a man identifying himself as part of a group previously involved in such activities, suggests attempts were made to implicate IPOB, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and our leader, Nnamdi Kanu,” IPOB said.
  
The group stressed that it has consistently communicated, through official statements and broadcasts, that its mission is peaceful and geared toward advocacy for self-determination.
  
It also urged the public and media to exercise caution and conduct thorough investigations before apportioning blame.
  
“We expect responsible media and public institutions to critically evaluate such claims and avoid hastily labelling IPOB or ESN in matters of regional insecurity,” the statement added.
  
IPOB called for transparency and governance accountability, encouraging Imo State residents! to demand clarity and justice concerning the ongoing insecurity in their communities.

MEANWHILE, the Imo State Government has listed measures aimed at suspected influx of fleeing criminal elements from neighbouring states. According to a statement issued yesterday by the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, on behalf of the Ministry of Home Land Security and Vigilante Affairs, directed landlords in the about 644 autonomous communities in the 27 local councils of the state, to ensure that henceforth tenants intending or living in their homes fill acquaintance forms which had detailed information about each tenant.
   
The statement warned that failure to adhere to the directive would lead to the demolition of such houses if the tenant is discovered to be a criminal. The state government warned that such suspected criminals should be reported promptly.
  
On the influx of what it called “petty criminals and what the landlords and residents should do, the statement advised: “The threat is real. With an influx of petty criminals, including Okeite voodoo native doctors, fleeing from neighbouring states, it is vital that we, as responsible citizens, are proactive in preventing them from taking refuge in our communities.