Biafra: Securing the Homeland: Unpacking the Truth About the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and Its Achievements in Protecting Southeast Nigeria (2020-2022)
■ Writer: Ezekwereogu Odinaka
■ Twitter:@umuchiukwu
■05.03.2025
The Eastern Security Network (ESN) has been the subject of controversy and misinformation in recent times.
The Nigerian government and some media outlets have labelled the ESN a “criminal” organization, sparking widespread condemnation and concern. However, it is essential to examine the facts and context surrounding the ESN to understand its true nature and objectives.
Contextualizing the ESN The ESN was established by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as a regional security outfit to protect the southeastern region of Nigeria from insecurity and violence. The IPOB leadership argued that the Nigerian government had failed to provide adequate security for the area, leaving it vulnerable to attacks from armed groups and bandits.
Objectives of the ESN The primary purpose of the ESN is to provide security and protection for the people of the Southeast. They aim to achieve this by: 1. Patrolling the region – ESN operatives patrol forests, roads, and communities to prevent attacks and crimes. 2. Protecting lives and property – The ESN works to safeguard lives and property, particularly in rural areas where government security presence is minimal.
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3. Collaborating with local communities – The ESN engages with local communities to gather intelligence and respond to security concerns. Achievements of the ESN Since its inception in 2020, the ESN has made significant strides in securing the region and reducing insecurity.
Some notable achievements include: • December 2020 – The ESN successfully repelled an attack by armed herdsmen in the Orlu area of Imo State, protecting local farmers and communities. • February 2021 – The ESN collaborated with local vigilantes to apprehend a group of kidnappers along the Abia State axis of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway. • April 2021 – The ESN launched a successful operation to flush out bandits from the forests of Ebonyi State, restoring peace and security to the affected communities. • June 2021 – The ESN worked with the Anambra State government to establish a joint security task force, which has been instrumental in reducing crime and insecurity in the state. • August 2021 – The ESN foiled an attempted attack by unknown gunmen in the Ihiala area of Anambra State, protecting lives and property. • October 2021 – The ESN collaborated with the Imo State government to launch a security operation that led to the arrest of several notorious criminals and the recovery of stolen vehicles. • January 2022 – The ESN successfully repelled an attack by armed herdsmen in the Okigwe area of Imo State, once again protecting local farmers and communities.
Challenging the “Criminal” Label Labeling the ESN as a “criminal” organization is both misleading and unjust.
While it is possible that some individuals may have engaged in unlawful activities, it is crucial to distinguish between the actions of a few and the overall objectives of the ESN. Furthermore, the Nigerian government’s response to the ESN has been heavy-handed, with reports of human rights abuses, extrajudicial killings, and arbitrary arrests. Such actions have only escalated tensions and contributed to greater insecurity in the region.
Conclusion The ESN is not a “criminal” organization but rather a regional security outfit established to protect the people of the Southeast. Its achievements in securing the region and safeguarding communities demonstrate its commitment to peace and security.
By reframing the narrative surrounding the ESN and acknowledging its legitimate objectives, a more constructive path toward regional stability can be achieved. The continued mischaracterization of the ESN as a criminal entity only serves to perpetuate violence and mistrust. It is time to challenge this narrative and seek solutions that foster lasting peace and security in Southeast Nigeria.
Edited by Ikechukwu Chibundu
Editor in Chief Udeagha Obasi
For Umuchiukwu Writers
