In a bold move to bolster its claim to sovereignty, Ngozi Orabueze, deputy to the detained Finland-based self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the United States of Biafra (USB), Simon Ekpa, has announced a recruitment drive for agitators to join various branches of the Biafran security forces.
Orabueze made the announcement in a statement dated December 25, 2024, titled, “Announcement of Conscription Call to Serve the United States of Biafra Security Forces,” which she co-signed with Solomon N., identified as the Secretary of Defence for the movement.
According to the statement, the recruitment drive is aimed at building the Biafra Defence Forces, Biafra Liberation Army, Biafra Navy, Biafra Air Force, and other special squads. The process is reportedly decentralized and will involve state commanders, deputy commanders, state administrators, and special trainees.
The statement read in part:
“The USB under PM Simon Ekpa, represented by the COS/DPM and Defence Minister, is hereby calling on all eligible Biafra citizens to join the Biafra Defence Forces, Biafra Liberation Army, Biafra Navy, Biafra Air Force, and special squads.
“This recruitment is decentralized using State commanders, deputy commanders, state administrators, and special trainees. The task to strengthen our armed forces against reintegrated terrorists wearing Nigeria military and police uniform is critical to protecting the sovereignty and geographical space of the newly declared Nation – United States of Biafra.”
This announcement comes amidst ongoing tensions and controversy surrounding the activities of Simon Ekpa and his associates. Ekpa, currently detained in Finland, has been a polarizing figure in the agitation for the independence of Biafra. His group has faced criticism for its methods and alleged involvement in unrest across southeastern Nigeria.
The call for recruitment marks an escalation in the group’s activities, raising concerns about potential clashes with Nigerian authorities. It remains to be seen how this latest development will influence the ongoing Biafran agitation and the broader security dynamics in the region.
As the situation unfolds, questions about the legitimacy, logistics, and implications of the recruitment drive are likely to dominate public discourse, both within and outside the southeast.
