IPOB Cautions Igbo Leaders Against Mobilizing Youths for Nigerian Army Recruitment, Cites Marginalization, Safety Concerns, and Lack of Representation
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a public advisory to traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth organizations, and community heads in the South East, urging them to refrain from encouraging Igbo youths to join the Nigerian Army.
In a statement released by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the group alleged that the Nigerian military is currently engaging influential figures across the region to promote enlistment into the armed forces. IPOB warned that such campaigns could place young Igbo lives at risk and may not serve their long-term interests.
The group criticized what it described as systemic imbalance in military recruitment and promotion, claiming the South East is routinely allocated fewer slots and remains underrepresented in senior military and security positions. “Before encouraging our youths to enlist, leaders must consider the historical pattern of discrimination, marginalization, and lack of career advancement for Igbo officers,” the statement read.
IPOB also expressed concern over the welfare and safety of soldiers, particularly those deployed to conflict-prone areas. The group called on the military to be more transparent about casualty figures and operational outcomes in ongoing security engagements.
Reaffirming its opposition to what it termed a “proxy war” involving West African forces, IPOB maintained that the region’s leaders should prioritize meaningful youth empowerment through employment opportunities and inclusive economic policies over military service.
While IPOB remains a controversial separatist movement, proscribed as a terrorist organization by the Nigerian government in 2017, the group emphasized the need for caution and deeper reflection from South East stakeholders regarding military recruitment initiatives.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army has not responded to IPOB’s claims.
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