Army denies shooting protesters in Abia

The Nigerians Army has debunked allegations that its men opened fire on Biafra agitators in Abia state.

According to Vanguard, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) had earlier alleged that the Army shot at their members who were holding a rally to honour heroes of the Biafra struggle.

According to reports, Tuesday, May 30, 2017, was declared a work free day to celebrate Biafra Day.

The Army also said that there was no soldier at the venue of the march.

A statement signed by the Deputy Director, Public Relations, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Col. Sagir Musa said “The attention of 82 Division, Nigerian Army, has been drawn to another allegation made by IPOB in a statement the group released at about 1645 hours on May 29, 2017, that there were sporadic shootings by the Army in Aba and Umuahia axis and that soldiers opened fire on its (IPOB) members in Aba during a procession in honour of those who died during the Biafra civil war.

“The Division wishes to state that there was no soldier at the venue or vicinity where the procession took place. Also, there was no crisis or breakdown of law and order in Aba, Umuahia and in the whole of South Eastern part of Nigeria as to warrant/justify use of firearms as falsely and mischievously alleged by IPOB propagandists.

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"What is obvious, however, is an increase in the presence of security agencies on routine patrols in different locations in the region, particularly areas that are regarded as real or potential flash points. The aim is to pro actively checkmate possible security breaches in view of sordid/divisive utterances and in some cases blatant actions by secessionist agitators,”

Meanwhile, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, speaking at an event organised to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of the Nigeria-Biafra war, said Nigeria is better united than separated.