The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has dismissed attempts to associate its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, with the actions of Simon Ekpa, stressing that such claims are misleading and unfair.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the pro-Biafra group noted that Kanu’s prolonged detention has created a leadership vacuum that opportunistic individuals are exploiting.
Powerful commended Chief Martin Onovo for clearly separating IPOB’s peaceful self-determination campaign from activities attributed to Simon Ekpa.
“IPOB is a peaceful movement. Any effort to link our leader and our non-violent struggle with violent actions is baseless,” he stated.
The group also underscored that it operates strictly as a non-violent self-determination organisation, with structures and recognition beyond Nigeria.
IPOB urged the international community, human rights defenders, and democratic governments to pay close attention to its position, warning against misrepresentation.
The group further called for the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, insisting that respecting court orders and following due legal processes would help ease growing tensions in the South East.
“Resolving Kanu’s status will reduce agitation and prevent opportunistic actors from taking advantage of the situation,” the statement added.
IPOB also appealed to the government to conduct independent investigations into violent incidents in the region, stressing that such acts should not be attributed to the movement without verifiable evidence.
The group concluded by urging authorities to embrace dialogue and lawful, peaceful channels in addressing national grievances.
