Igbo youths Army recruitment concerns grow as IPOB lawyer Aloy Ejimakor explains factors behind low enlistment from the South-East

IPOB Lawyer Explains Why Some Igbo Youths Aloy Ejimakor, lawyer to detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, has said some young people from the South-East are reluctant to join the Nigerian Army because of concerns over trust and representation within the military institution.

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Ejimakor made the comments on Thursday while reacting to remarks by Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who raised concerns about the low number of South-East youths participating in military recruitment.

The Army chief had highlighted the issue during a passing-out parade at the Nigerian Army Recruits Training Depot in Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State, where he encouraged more youths from the region to consider military careers.

However, Ejimakor argued that the situation was linked to historical experiences and perceptions about the military, rather than a lack of willingness or bravery among Igbo youths.

According to the lawyer, some South-East youths feel disconnected from the country’s security institutions and believe the military has previously been used against communities in the region during periods of conflict.

He referenced historical events, including the 1967 crisis involving the Igbo population in Northern Nigeria, as well as more recent security operations in areas such as Nkpor, Aba, Obigbo and Port Harcourt involving individuals suspected of links to IPOB.

Ejimakor said these experiences have contributed to concerns among some young people about joining an institution they believe has not always treated their communities fairly.

He also pointed to public debates around the rehabilitation and reintegration of former Boko Haram fighters, saying some youths in the South-East have expressed discomfort with serving alongside individuals associated with past insurgency activities.

The lawyer described the low recruitment figures from the region as a reflection of dissatisfaction and mistrust rather than an indication that South-East youths lack patriotism.

Ejimakor said many young people are hesitant to risk their lives within a military structure they believe does not adequately represent or protect their interests.

The Nigerian Army has previously urged more youths from the South-East to participate in recruitment exercises, noting that the region often records some of the lowest enlistment figures nationwide.

Military authorities have maintained that recruitment is transparent, merit-based and open to qualified Nigerians from all regions. Officials have also attributed low participation in some areas to misinformation and limited awareness about military opportunities.

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The debate over regional representation in Nigeria’s security institutions continues as authorities seek broader participation in the armed forces while addressing concerns about public confidence and inclusion.