The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has strongly criticized the Nigerian government for launching a media campaign aimed at discrediting their movement. As the court hearing of their leader, Nnamdi Kanu, approaches, IPOB accuses the government of using propaganda to manipulate public opinion and distract from pressing national issues.

According to IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, this campaign is a deliberate and well-funded strategy designed to distort facts. He stated, “The APC government has no case against Kanu.” The group insists that the government’s actions are meant to cover up its failures, especially in addressing insecurity in the country.

In a statement titled “Nigerian Government’s Anti-IPOB Media Campaign is a Deliberate Ploy to Manipulate Public Opinion,” IPOB emphasized its commitment to peaceful advocacy. The organization described itself as a non-violent self-determination movement pushing for a democratic referendum to establish Biafra.

IPOB Denies Allegations of Terror Camps

IPOB rejected recent claims of a police raid on a supposed “IPOB terror camp” in Imo State, calling the reports baseless fabrications. The group clarified that it does not operate camps and blamed criminal elements unaffiliated with them for collaborating with state actors to tarnish their image.

Emma Powerful highlighted the group’s focus on resolving insecurity in southeastern Nigeria and demanded the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu. He further urged the international community to investigate the root causes of insecurity in the region, adding that only an independent inquiry can uncover the truth.

A Call for Accountability and Justice

The group accused the Nigerian government of using media propaganda to mislead the public. They stated that for years, government-backed media outlets have labeled IPOB as a violent organization without evidence. IPOB believes these narratives are designed to divert attention from widespread insecurity, including alleged Fulani-led attacks and other crises.

IPOB also called on global organizations to hold Nigeria accountable for human rights abuses and suppression of dissent. Emma Powerful asserted that advocating for a referendum is a democratic right and should not be mistaken for terrorism.

IPOB’s Demands

The group reiterated its demands, which include:

• The immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu from detention.
• An international panel of inquiry to investigate insecurity in Igboland.
• Accountability for individuals and groups fueling violence in the southeast.

Despite the challenges, IPOB remains steadfast in its commitment to peaceful advocacy and ending insecurity in southeastern Nigeria.