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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has slammed a statement by Sunday Dare, an aide to President Bola Tinubu, defending the conviction of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
In a press release dated February 17, 2026, IPOB described reports suggesting Kanu’s case is “different” from the activism of Sunday Igboho as “intellectually dishonest” and “ethnically biased.” The group insisted that Kanu’s struggle for Biafra cannot be compared with Igboho’s activism, arguing that the latter posed no existential threat to the Nigerian state.
IPOB Draws Parallels With Global Freedom Fighters
IPOB cited a range of historical leaders who were imprisoned or convicted while fighting for freedom, including Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, and Nigeria’s former President Nnamdi Azikiwe.
The group also reminded the public of the late Yoruba leader Obafemi Awolowo, who was convicted of treasonable felony in 1963 but is today celebrated as a hero in Yorubaland. IPOB argued that Kanu deserves the same historical vindication.
Allegations Of Ethnic Influence
IPOB claimed Kanu’s conviction was orchestrated by a “Yoruba-led cabal,” pointing to a Yoruba judge, prosecutors, and the Attorney-General of the Federation, all operating under President Tinubu’s administration. The group described the trial as predetermined and unfair.
Eastern Security Network Defense
Addressing security concerns, IPOB said the Eastern Security Network (ESN), established by Kanu, has protected South-East communities from Fulani herders and insurgents. The group argued that this contrasts with rising insecurity in parts of Yorubaland.
Reaffirmation Of Biafra Agenda
The release concluded with a firm stance that Kanu’s detention will not stop IPOB’s pursuit of Biafra’s restoration. The group warned that the persecution of its leader would only strengthen the resolve of its members.
No official response has yet come from the presidency regarding IPOB’s statement.
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