Biafra: The Landmine Ruse: Unmasking the Orsu Initiative Group’s True Intentions

 Biafra: The Landmine Ruse: Unmasking the Orsu Initiative Group’s True Intentions 

■ Writer: Ezekwereogu Odinaka

■ Twitter:@umuchiukwu

■ 10.02.2025

The Orsu Initiative Group’s recent appeal to the federal government to clear alleged hidden landmines in Imo communities appears to be a calculated attempt to manipulate public opinion and justify further military intervention in the region. 

A critical analysis of the group’s statement raises several red flags. Firstly, there is no verifiable evidence to substantiate the claim that landmines are hidden in these communities. Their assertion is based on uncorroborated rumours and hearsay—an unreliable foundation for calling on federal authorities to intervene. Secondly, the timing of this appeal is highly suspicious, coinciding with the aftermath of the military’s controversial “Operation Python Dance.” This operation, widely condemned by human rights organizations, led to extensive destruction and the forced displacement of innocent civilians.

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The Orsu Initiative Group is attempting to exploit the trauma and fear instilled by the military’s previous actions to justify renewed intervention. By fabricating a narrative around hidden landmines, the group appears to be creating a pretext for the military’s re-entry into the region, thereby enabling further repression and violence. The people of Imo communities deserve better than to be used as pawns in a larger political game. 

Instead of succumbing to the Orsu Initiative Group’s deceptive rhetoric, the focus should be on holding the military and government accountable for their actions while pursuing a peaceful and just resolution to the ongoing crisis. 

Edited by Mazi Ikechukwu Chibundu 

Editor in Chief Udeagha Obasi 

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