The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio over his recent comments to Igbo youths, describing them as misleading and aimed at undermining the group’s push for self-determination.
Akpabio, who spoke during a visit to Enugu, had cautioned youths in the South-East against engaging in armed struggle, warning that the power of the state would ultimately prevail. He also hinted at possible political solutions, including the creation of an additional state and greater inclusion of the region in national affairs.
But in a statement issued by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, IPOB said the Senate President’s remarks were wrongly framed and failed to address the real issue.
According to the group, its movement, led by Nnamdi Kanu, is not an armed campaign but a peaceful call for a referendum that would allow people in the South-East to decide their political future.
IPOB stressed that its position has remained consistent over the years, insisting that self-determination through a referendum is a democratic right, not a criminal act.
The group argued that equating its agitation with violence is a deliberate attempt to misrepresent its objectives and justify actions taken against its members.
It also pointed to provisions in Nigerian law and international agreements, noting that the right of people to determine their political status is recognised globally and should not be suppressed.
Reacting to the warning about state power, IPOB said such statements reflect a reliance on force rather than dialogue, adding that democratic demands should be addressed through engagement, not intimidation.
The group further dismissed the suggestion of creating an additional state in the South-East, stating that such proposals do not address the fundamental concerns being raised.
On the economic challenges in the region, IPOB maintained that these issues cannot be separated from broader political developments, including security operations and tensions that have affected daily life and business activities.
IPOB also referenced the continued detention and legal situation of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, alleging that it forms part of ongoing efforts to weaken the movement.
Reiterating its demands, the group said it is committed to pursuing a peaceful process and called for a referendum as the only acceptable path forward.
“IPOB is not seeking conflict but a democratic solution that allows the people to make a choice,” the statement added.
The group concluded by urging authorities to focus on dialogue and respect for democratic principles, maintaining that the future of the region should ultimately be decided by its people
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