IPOB lawyer Ejiofor praises return of peace, calm in South-East
The Nigerian human rights attorney and chief counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has praised the restoration of tranquillity and serenity in the South-East region.
Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, who is honoured with the title Dunu–Ezeugosinachi, expressed this sentiment in his Midweek Musings on Wednesday, which was titled: “The Return of Calm in Alaigbo: A Triumph to Cherish, Not a Licence to Relapse.”
He characterised this development as uplifting, emphasising that individuals in the region can now engage in their lawful pursuits without fear or intimidation from any source.
He stated, “It is no longer a matter of speculation, but a clear and reassuring reality, that the entire South-East region has, to a commendable degree, restored a climate of relative peace and civil order.”
Additionally, he remarked that this progress is not coincidental, but rather indicative of the fundamental values of the Igbo nation, values that are deeply embedded in enterprise, communal harmony, resilience, and a profound respect for the sanctity of life and lawful coexistence.
This peace, although previously disrupted by forces whose calculated aim was to destabilise the region frequently, regrettably supported by misguided elements and emboldened by unscrupulous individuals in positions of authority who take pleasure in the spoils of chaos, has now been painstakingly restored through the deliberate, coordinated, and principled efforts of key stakeholders.
The present stewardship of the Global Peaceful Restoration—true advocates of freedom, steadfastly united by an unwavering dedication to order, justice, and social balance—is truly deserving of the highest praise.
I must also, with careful emphasis, recognise the extraordinary contributions of those leading certain security agencies, particularly the current leadership of the State Security Service. Their tenure has been marked not only by operational professionalism but also by a commendable adherence to civility, restraint, and a refreshingly apolitical approach.
“Unlike what obtained in the past, when the situation resembled an ethnic war against this region, and when certain approaches unfairly cast the average Igbo youth under suspicion, often culminating in arbitrary arrests and the all-too-familiar euphemism of ‘enforced disappearances, ’ the present methodology reflects a paradigm shift grounded in respect for constitutional liberties and human dignity. One might even say, with cautious optimism, that decency has staged a quiet but notable return.”
Ejiofor noted that the current atmosphere across the region speaks for itself, as Igbo youths, women, and citizens across all strata now freely engage in lawful pursuits. They associate openly, exercise their constitutionally guaranteed rights, and go about their daily lives without the pervasive fear that once defined a troubling era, an era often reinforced by hostile security practices and dangerous ethnic profiling.
He emphasised that the transformation is neither accidental nor superficial, but the result of deliberate policy recalibration and humane security governance.
According to him, it also demonstrates that the chaos previously witnessed was, in part, driven by actors who benefited from sustained instability.
“Nevertheless,” he cautioned, “it would be both naïve and imprudent to assume that this hard-earned peace is beyond thre@t. There remain individuals and interests who, either out of discontent or less noble motivations, may yet attempt to reintroduce instability and discord into the region.
“Peace, as history repeatedly reminds us, is often most vulnerable at the very moment it is proclaimed ‘total.’ It is therefore imperative that all relevant authorities and stakeholders remain vigilant, proactive, and unwavering in their commitment to preserving this fragile yet promising stability,” he added.
He stressed that the lessons of history must neither be forgotten nor ignored, warning against any relapse into an era of fear, uncertainty, and regression, one from which the region has only recently and painfully emerged.
Rather, he urged that the prevailing peace be consciously nurtured, strategically protected, and collectively sustained as the indispensable foundation for socio-economic advancement and generational prosperity.
He added that Alaigbo is gradually reclaiming its lost glory and emerging as a model of recovery.
“Indeed, peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice, equity, and purposeful governance. Having attained it, we must now institutionalise it, lest it quietly slip through our fingers while we congratulate ourselves prematurely,” he stated.
Ejiofor stated that the restoration of peace in Alaigbo is both a triumph and a responsibility.
He said it places a solemn duty on leaders and citizens alike to guard, preserve, and strengthen it.
“With unity of purpose and fidelity to the rule of law, this peace shall not only endure but flourish from generation to generation.
“May the Almighty continue to guide and preserve Alaigbo,” he added.
