Awka, Anambra State – Security forces in Anambra State have reportedly arrested some leaders of the Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network ESN, in connection with the September 30, 2021, attack on Ajalli Police Station in Orumba North Local Government Area.
According to reports, Emmanuel Nwafor and Ikechukwu Mba were part of the team that masterminded the violent assault, during which IPOB/ESN operatives set the station ablaze in a bid to free detained members. The attack resulted in the deaths of two police officers, while seven individuals, including security personnel, were trapped inside the burning building. During the chaos, Nwafor and his group successfully freed five of their members before fleeing the scene.
Anambra State Governor Prof. Charles Soludo, who has intensified crackdowns on criminal elements across the state, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring law and order. Security agencies had long declared some IPOB leaders wanted. The police also identified five other IPOB operatives: Jeremiah Okoye, Benjamin Okoli, Emeka Okeke, Ifeanyi Nwaliri, and Samson Jideofor who are part of the wanted persons.
Authorities further linked the group to several violent incidents, including the burning of an APC campaign vehicle and targeted attacks on mobile police units. Security officials claim these operations were part of IPOB’s broader agenda to disrupt the presidential election in the Southeast while pushing for the release of their detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The Police described Nwafor and Mba as dangerous terrorists and confirmed that they will be arraigned in court alongside several other suspects. Among those arrested in recent raids are self-proclaimed native doctors, whom authorities accuse of preparing charms and fortifications for criminals operating across the state.
As security operations continue, the Anambra State Government has reiterated its resolve to dismantle criminal networks and bring all perpetrators of violence to justice.
In August, a report by Amnesty International said at least 115 people have been extrajudicially killed by the Nigerian security forces in four months in the eastern region of the country. Amnesty’s Country Director, Osai Ojigh described the evidence that fueled its report as such that “paints a damning picture of ruthless excessive force by Nigerian security forces in Imo, Anambra, and Abia states.”
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