The Nigerian military has welcomed the Court of Appeal's ruling reaffirming IPOB's proscription as a terrorist group. Major General Edward Buba stated the decision would boost troops' morale and accelerate operations against IPOB and ESN. The ruling overturns a 2023 Enugu court decision, reinforcing the government's stance on national security.
The Nigerian military has expressed strong support for the recent Court of Appeal ruling that reaffirmed the proscription of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as a terrorist organization. According to military authorities, the verdict will serve as a major boost for ongoing security operations against IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized that the ruling strengthens the resolve of security forces to accelerate their efforts in neutralizing threats posed by IPOB. He described the decision as a "welcome development" that provides legal backing for intensified military action.
The Court of Appeal’s judgment upheld a previous ruling that banned IPOB under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2017. Although IPOB had challenged its designation in various courts, including a 2023 Enugu State High Court ruling that temporarily overturned the proscription, the latest judgment reinstates the group's status as a terrorist organization.
Buba stressed that the military remains committed to maintaining national security and ensuring IPOB’s activities do not pose a further threat to Nigeria’s sovereignty. He assured the public that the armed forces would act decisively in dismantling IPOB strongholds.