Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has directed a statewide intensification of surveillance operations in a bid to prevent any unlawful gatherings or attempts to enforce the sit-at-home directive declared by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for Friday, May 30, 2025.
The directive follows the arrest of one Friday Obeta, a suspected IPOB member and informant, in Nnewi. Obeta was apprehended by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) following credible intelligence that linked him to plans aimed at coordinating the enforcement of the IPOB-declared sit-at-home order.
During the arrest, security operatives recovered a motorcycle, a t-shirt bearing IPOB insignia, and an operational identification card belonging to the outlawed group. The police described the items as evidence of the suspect’s active involvement in the group’s activities.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the state command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the arrest and noted that the suspect is currently assisting investigators.
“Obeta, aged 37, confessed to being a member and informant of IPOB. He has made useful statements that are aiding ongoing investigations aimed at apprehending other members and collaborators of the group,” the statement read.
CP Orutugu, responding to the arrest, ordered heightened vigilance and proactive policing measures across all divisions in the state. He emphasized that the Anambra State Police Command would not tolerate any act capable of breaching public peace and security.
“The Command remains resolute in ensuring that no group or individual undermines the peace and security of Anambra State,” the statement emphasized.
The Commissioner also warned that anyone found attempting to enforce unlawful directives or incite public disorder would face the full weight of the law.
This development comes amid heightened tensions across the Southeast, where IPOB has repeatedly attempted to enforce sit-at-home orders in defiance of federal authorities. The police have urged residents to go about their lawful activities on May 30 and report any suspicious activity to the nearest security post.
The Anambra State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property while assuring the public of continued efforts to dismantle any networks threatening the state’s stability.
