Billie Human Rights Initiative Condemns President Tinubu's Actions Against IPOB, Alleges Humanitarian Violations

The Billie Human Rights Initiative, a registered charitable organisation under the Charity Commission of England and Wales, has voiced grave concerns over recent developments in Nigeria. The organisation, which is committed to upholding the absolute human rights of the People of Biafra, has addressed the tragic events that transpired on May 30, 2024, and the subsequent actions by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.

On Biafra Day, May 30, 2024, Nigeria experienced a tragic loss of lives, including Igbo Army officers and six civilians. The Billie Human Rights Initiative extended profound sympathy and condolences to the families and friends of the deceased. However, the organisation is troubled by President Tinubu's failure to acknowledge the loss of Igbo civilian lives, as well as the orders given to the army that are currently resulting in the deaths of innocent civilians. These actions highlight ongoing human rights abuses and the marginalisation of the Igbo people.

The terrorist attack, which was hastily attributed to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), raises several critical questions under international humanitarian law. To date, there is no evidence to suggest that IPOB was responsible for this act. Instead, it appears to be a coordinated effort to undermine the people's right to self-determination and destabilise the economic growth of Abia State. Over the past year, Abia State has become a symbol of progress and inward investment, demonstrating good governance and leadership in stark contrast to other states in Nigeria.

The Billie Human Rights Initiative has posed several critical questions demanding answers: How could such a sophisticated attack occur in Aba despite the government's claims of having degraded IPOB and its intelligence networks? Are there rogue elements within the Nigerian state willing to perpetrate human rights abuses and destabilise Igbo Land? Is there an agenda to sabotage the Aba free trade economic zone under the guise of counterterrorism? Why were mostly Igbo army officers targeted in this incident, and why has President Tinubu not expressed condolences to the families of the slain Igbo civilians?

Furthermore, the organisation urges President Tinubu to comply with court orders regarding the illegal detention of Nnamdi Kanu and to adopt a leadership approach to resolve the issue of self-determination. Ignoring court orders for Kanu's release undermines justice and fuels further unrest.

The Billie Human Rights Initiative calls on President Tinubu to thoroughly investigate these matters before taking any actions that could result in violations of international humanitarian law and crimes against humanity. Prematurely blaming IPOB without a comprehensive investigation threatens to escalate violence, destroy property, and deter foreign investment in one of Africa's burgeoning commercial cities.

The organisation stands firm in its condemnation of the continued atrocities against the Igbo people and urges the Nigerian government to pursue justice and peace through thorough and unbiased investigations, in accordance with the principles enshrined in the Geneva Conventions and other international human rights instruments.