By Emmanuel Obisue
Nigerian Army has stated that the call by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, to shun ongoing recruitment into the 88 Regular Recruits Intake, RRI exercise is a “last kick of a dying group”.
Reacting to an IPOB statement circulated in the social media, the Army posited that the move is a futile attempt to undermine national unity and cohesion, adding that the group has once again resorted to fear-mongering by issuing an unpatriotic warning to the vibrant and resilient youths in Nigeria’s Southeast region.
Urging youths in the region to ignore the call, the Nigerian Army commended Igbo youths for consistently demonstrating “unwavering patriotism and commitment by filling their quotas in various military and paramilitary recruitments, as well as in the civil service of federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).
The Army said despite IPOB’s “baseless threats”, the ongoing registration for the 88 RRI has witnessed an encouraging turnout of applicants from the Southeast.
“Youths of the South East and ndigbo in general must remain resolute. Let no one rob you of your dreams and rights. IPOB’s propaganda is indicative of the last kicks of a dying man attempting to sabotage your future and should be met with contempt. They have done nothing for the region but cause pain, economic devastation, and palpable fear. The Nigerian Army stands as a beacon of hope, offering avenues for self-advancement, honour, and service to the nation.
“It is equally important to recall that South Eastern youths proudly filled their slots during the recent commissioning of Direct Regular Cadets at the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). The South East remains a veritable stronghold of loyal and professional personnel in the Nigerian military, which, unlike the unpatriotic and dissident IPOB elements, have pledged their allegiance to the Nigerian state and are excelling in service.
“IPOB, by contrast, is nothing but a band of terrorists and militias responsible for dragging the region into economic ruin. Their senseless enforcement of illegal sit-at-home orders has crippled hitherto blossoming businesses and enterprise, while their involvement in kidnappings and killings has brought misery to the very people they claim to represent. The latest statement from IPOB is nothing short of a veiled threat, designed to intimidate the very youths whose futures they seek to destroy for no reason other than for selfish interest,” a statement on Tuesday by Major General Onyema Nwachuku, Army’s Director of Public Relations and Information stated.