IPOB Denies Blackmail Allegations, Reiterates Call for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has accused the Nigerian government and military of attempting to discredit the movement by linking it to the ongoing Monday sit-at-home protests.

In a statement, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to self-determination and called for the unconditional release of its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

IPOB claimed that security agencies have been enforcing the sit-at-home despite the group’s official suspension of the order. The statement suggested that the government aims to turn the Igbo population against IPOB by attributing economic disruptions to the movement.

“The Nigerian Army and Police have been patrolling rural communities on Mondays, and some youths have been arrested, which contributes to the enforcement of sit-at-home,” the statement read.

“IPOB had suspended the order after its first successful compliance and has consistently condemned any form of violent enforcement.”

The group alleged that certain individuals have been recruited to commit crimes in the name of IPOB, but following recent arrests abroad, such activities have reportedly reduced. IPOB maintained that the only way to end the sit-at-home is through the release of Nnamdi Kanu and engagement in dialogue.

IPOB urged the Nigerian government to shift its focus toward resolving security challenges in other parts of the country rather than suppressing civil actions in the South-East.

“If the Nigerian Army is truly committed to national security, they should also focus on addressing broader security challenges affecting other regions,” IPOB stated.

The group also called on the federal government and South-East governors to engage in meaningful discussions with the people rather than relying on forceful measures.

“The Nigerian government should engage in dialogue and consider peaceful solutions,” the statement added. “The release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will address many of the concerns leading to the sit-at-home.”

As the situation unfolds, attention remains on the government’s response to IPOB’s demands and efforts to stabilize the region. According to IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu’s release is key to ending the sit-at-home protests, which were initially declared in 2021 to demand his release.

VANGUARD