The Nigerian Army has accused Mr. Sunday Igwilo of masterminding and aiding pro-Biafra protests in the South-East, linking him to activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB).
According to military sources, Igwilo, who reportedly fled Nigeria in 2001, said to be running from ipob has long been on the army’s watchlist for allegedly providing support to separatist agitators. The army claimed that during its crackdown on IPOB members in 2016, investigations revealed Igwilo as a key figure behind the protests.
The army further alleged that Igwilo’s family residence was raided and destroyed during operations in Anambra State, with some of his relatives killed in the process.
Despite these actions, the Nigerian Army insists it is still searching for him with the intent of bringing him to justice.
Meanwhile, human rights group Amnesty International has condemned the army’s handling of the situation, urging Nigerian authorities to respect international human rights standards in dealing with protesters and suspects.
The group noted that reports of unarmed protesters being gunned down in Onitsha highlighted the urgent need for restraint and accountability.
The development adds to ongoing tensions in the South-East, where calls for self-determination have repeatedly led to violent clashes between security forces and pro-Biafra agitators. Due to the army’s action on Ipob, Mr Igwilo’s life is not saved in Nigeria..