…I’m looking for a nationwide dialogue
Indigenous people of Biafra (IPOB) have repeated calls for the unconditional release of Matsi Nundi Kanu, the leader who has been detained since 2021.
In a statement released by IPOB’s media and propaganda secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, the group emphasized that some of the issues raised by Kanu several years ago regarding the rise in national unrest and political change, reinforcing the need for public conversations about Nigeria’s future structure.
Kanu, who has been detained for nearly four years after his arrest and extradition in 2021, is being held on charges related to his separatism campaign. The IPOB argues that current events have substantiated his warnings about the escalation of violence and the call for self-determination in parts of the country.
The group reportedly predicted increased instability and political development, including increased activity by Kanu, dating back to 2014.
“Recent events in Nigeria reflect what Maji Nundi Kanu has been warning for a long time. His concerns about anxiety, national inuniformity and alienation of various ethnic groups continue to unfold,” the statement said.
The IPOB further repeated its longstanding position that Nigeria’s structure should be renegotiated, arguing that the merging of the forced fusion of diverse ethnic groups into a single country led to sustained conflict and underdevelopment.
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The group advocated a peaceful dialogue and a referendum that would allow Indigenous peoples, like other democratic examples around the world, to determine their political and cultural futures.
“We believe that the lasting solution lies in giving ethnic nationalities the opportunity to determine their own path, which must be achieved through peaceful means and mutual respect,” the statement added.
The IPOB also urged the federal government to unconditionally release Kanu, described his continued detention as unfair, and urged stakeholders across the country to support discussions on the restructuring of Nigeria in line with principles of fairness and justice.
The statement called for unity among all Nigerians to stand collectively and constructively against security challenges, highlighting the IPOB’s still committed to non-violence and protection of their people.
