By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a suspected member of the banned Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), as part of efforts to prevent the alleged plans to enforce an illegal sit-at-home directive on May 30, 2025.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the arrest, which was carried out by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Nnewi, followed credible intelligence regarding an underground mobilization to mark what was tagged “Biafran Day” through the unlawful restriction of movement in parts of the state.
The Police Spokesman said the suspect, identified as Friday Obeta (aged 37), was apprehended during a tactical operation that also led to the recovery (from him) of a motorcycle, a branded MASSOB t-shirt, and an official identification card of the group.
He added that, during preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to being an active member and informant for the secessionist organization, and also provided useful intelligence that is currently aiding police investigations aimed at locating and apprehending other members of the group.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended and also directed the officers to step up surveillance and operational efforts across the state to forestall any unlawful gathering or activity that could jeopardize public peace and order.
CP Orutugu also reaffirmed the Command’s zero tolerance for any attempt to incite unrest or enforce illegal directives in the state under any guise, warning that anyone found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The Commissioner further charged security personnel across formations in the state to intensify intelligence-led operations, especially around the build-up to May 30, to ensure that Anambra remains peaceful and secure for all residents.
The Police Command also called on members of the public to remain law-abiding and vigilant, and to report any suspicious movement or activity around their communities to the nearest police station.
Recall that the Spokesperson of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB), Comrade Emma Powerful, had recently declared insisted that the group’s commemoration of Biafra Heroes Day on May 30 every year remains sacrosanct, describing it as a solemn day of remembrance for all who fell during the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), irrespective of ethnic origin.
