IPOB has disowned Simon Ekpa and warned against linking him to Nnamdi Kanu.
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a stern warning against attempts to associate Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based Nigerian, with its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, or the group’s activities.
In a statement released on Monday by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, IPOB described as “misleading and inaccurate” the recent reports suggesting any form of connection between Ekpa and the organization. The group clarified that Ekpa had long distanced himself from IPOB and has never been a part of its structure.
“Simon Ekpa is not a member of IPOB. He does not speak for, represent, or act on behalf of IPOB,” the statement declared. “Efforts to associate him with Mazi Nnamdi Kanu or the IPOB structure are unfounded and misleading.”
The pro-Biafra group urged both the Nigerian public and the international community to ignore any suggestions or propaganda implying that Ekpa acts in any official capacity for IPOB.
Emma Powerful reaffirmed that IPOB remains committed to its core principles of peaceful advocacy for self-determination, in accordance with international law. He also stressed that the organization’s primary focus remains the continued detention and extraordinary rendition of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
“We remain committed to our peaceful pursuit of justice and fairness, and we encourage the public to remain informed with verified facts,” he added.
IPOB also called on the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to respect existing court rulings concerning Kanu’s case and to uphold the rule of law.