Metro
Security operatives kill 11 IPOB members, injure many celebrating Trump
At least 11 members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) were reportedly shot dead on Friday, with many more injured.
They were allegedly shot by Nigerian security operatives during the group’s solidarity rally for Donald Trump, the new United States (US) President at Okporo, around Artillery axis of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
A statement by IPOB Media and Publicity Secretary, Mr Emma Powerful, alleged that the Nigerian security agencies, in particular the Department of State Security (DSS) and soldiers carried out the killings.
He said 27 members sustained varying bullet wounds while 57 people were arrested.
According to him, “The dead bodies of the people killed were carried by the Nigerian soldiers. We are calling on international community to prevail on the Nigerian soldiers to bring back the dead bodies.
Read also: Buhari treats Ndigbo as second class citizens, Ohanaeze cries
“Right now, we are being chased by the Nigeria security agencies and they are going round looking and arresting anybody suspected to be IPOB member, but we are not relenting in our support and solidarity for Trump.”
They were said to be marching in solidarity for the new American President towards Mile One through Aba Road in Port Harcourt when the incident occurred.
The incident reportedly saw many shop owners in the area close their businesses for the day.
According to a security source, the IPOB members carrying and waving Biafran, American and Russian flags, were asked to stop by the security operatives, but they declined, sparking a confrontation.
He, however, stated that he could not confirm if there were gun shots, or if anyone was killed.
IPOB memebers, led by detained Nnamdi Kanu, insist on independence for the Igbos who occupy the Southeastern fringes of Nigeria.
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