IPOB attack on security agencies not best agitation way – Umahi

Attack of military and security agencies by the Indigenous People of Biafria (IPOB) in the South-east is not the best way of agitation against marginalisation of the region, Governor Dave Umahi has said.

 

The governor said this yesterday while playing host to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai at the Government House, Abakaliki.

 

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Eric Kelechi, the governor said IPOB which was proscribed by South-east governors last Friday, did not follow constitutional ways to present it grievances.

 

He said: “IPOB does not exist in the land of Ebonyi, because we are peace loving people. We believe that attack of the military and other security agencies by members of the IPOB is not the best way to make their views known to the authorities.

 

“Last year, Exercise ‘Python Dance’ was conducted in Ebonyo peacefully, and the government supported it and welcomed it. This year, again, we are supporting the conduct of exercise ‘Python Dance II,’ because of its benefit to our people. I assure army and other security agencies on this exercise.”

 

Earlier, in his remarks, Buratai restated that the exercise was aimed to train army personnel on basic internal security procedure and work with other security agencies to promote inter-agency cooperation.

According to him, the exercise is extended to Ebonyi state because of its strategic location in the defence of the country.

 

He said: “The exercise is planned carefully, putting the concern of the South east people in mind. We know how to deploy our equipment and men. In carrying out this exercise we shall obey all the rules of engagement and ensure that the rights of the people are protected.”

 

 

 

 

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