ESN Has No Spokesperson, Doesn't Issue Travel Advisories — IPOB Official Clarifies

Ogoja Province Nigeria-BiafraLand.

In recent days, rumors have circulated across social media platforms, claiming that a commander of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), under the alias "Katapilla," had issued a travel warning to the Biafran public. The alleged warning reportedly advised citizens to avoid certain areas in Biafraland, particularly the Ihiala-Orlu axis, and claimed that ESN would soon launch operations targeting elements responsible for insecurity in the region.

To clarify the authenticity of this claim, The Biafra Sun reached out to the leadership of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the founders and proprietors of ESN. In their response, IPOB categorically denied the existence of any commander within the ranks of ESN named "Katapilla" and emphasized that ESN does not issue travel advisories or public warnings.

An official from the IPOB Directorate of State confirmed that the story circulating online is a deliberate attempt at misinformation, orchestrated by enemies of the Biafran cause. These false narratives, the official explained, are part of a larger strategy to undermine the IPOB movement and tarnish the image of ESN by creating confusion, fear, and doubt within Biafraland.

ESN is Not Independent of IPOB

IPOB’s official statement reiterated that ESN operates strictly under the framework of the IPOB movement. ESN, established to combat Fulani herdsmen's violent incursions into Biafran territory, functions as a vigilante group whose actions, methodology, and operations are directed by IPOB leadership. Consequently, ESN does not have its own spokesperson and does not operate independently of IPOB. Any communication regarding ESN’s operations comes exclusively from the IPOB leadership.

The official clarified that no ESN operative or commander is authorized to speak to the press, conduct interviews, or release information independently. In fact, the identity of ESN commanders remains confidential, with the exception of the late Ikonso, an ESN commander murdered by Nigerian forces three years ago. This secrecy is vital not only for the security of individual operatives but also to prevent breaches within the organization.

How ESN Operates Under IPOB Leadership

In instances where ESN or any other IPOB-affiliated unit, such as the M-Branch intelligence unit, gathers information requiring public disclosure, the IPOB leadership is responsible for making that announcement. Press statements are usually disseminated through IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Radio Biafra, or via the verified social media accounts of senior IPOB officials. This controlled communication ensures that the correct information reaches the public without misinformation or unauthorized statements.

While ESN is permitted to collect video evidence during its operations against Fulani terrorists in Biafraland, the publication of such content is carefully managed by IPOB leadership to ensure accuracy and security.

Beware of Misinformation

The IPOB official further warned Biafrans to be cautious about the sources of their information regarding the Biafran struggle and the activities of IPOB. Misinformation, impersonation, and blackmail have long been tools used by enemies of the movement to disrupt IPOB’s objectives and create distrust among the Biafran people. 

However, IPOB assures Biafrans that it remains resolute in its quest for Biafra’s self-determination and continues to explore all avenues toward the restoration of Biafra, despite the many challenges ahead. The ESN, meanwhile, will remain focused on its mission of safeguarding Biafra from external threats, particularly the Fulani terrorists infiltrating the region from the north.

As the struggle continues, Biafrans are encouraged to stay vigilant, remain unified, and trust in the leadership of IPOB to guide them toward their ultimate goal of Biafra's freedom.

Sources: Family Writers Press International