The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called on the international community, foreign diplomatic missions, and global human rights organizations to reassess the Nigerian government’s 2017 ban on the group.
IPOB claims that the proscription was imposed without following proper legal procedures and violated international human rights standards.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB emphasized that it is a peaceful movement focused on advocating for self-determination. The group dismissed the terrorism designation assigned to it, arguing that the label lacks any legal or factual justification.
IPOB highlighted a series of events following the ban that raised significant human rights concerns, including military operations and court rulings they describe as lacking transparency and fairness.
The group pointed to the military raid on the residence of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, in Afaraukwu, Abia State, in September 2017. IPOB alleged that the operation resulted in multiple deaths and has called for an independent investigation into the incident.
The group also criticized the legal process that led to its ban, claiming that the ex parte court order obtained by the then-Attorney General did not adhere to the requirements of the Terrorism Prevention Act nor respect constitutional rights to fair hearing and freedom of association.
IPOB referenced a 2023 Enugu High Court ruling that declared the proscription unconstitutional. The issue is currently under review by the Supreme Court.
In its statement, IPOB urged the international community to: examine the legality of the proscription process. Promote a peaceful resolution through dialogue aligned with regional and international human rights frameworks. Oversee judicial proceedings involving IPOB members, including its leader, to guarantee due process.
“IPOB remains dedicated to peaceful and lawful advocacy,” the statement concluded, renewing its appeal for international backing of a just and democratic path to self-determination.
