The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a fresh warning to the Nigerian government, accusing it of endangering the life of its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his arrest in 2021.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Comrade Emma Powerful, the group expressed grave concern over what it described as Kanu’s “deteriorating health condition” and insisted that his continued detention was unlawful and politically motivated.Nigeria Playing With Fire Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Health — IPOB
Concerns Over Kanu’s Health
IPOB said it was deeply worried about the health challenges facing its leader, alleging that the DSS has denied him adequate medical care despite several court rulings ordering improved access to healthcare. The group warned that should anything happen to Kanu, the consequences would be catastrophic.
“Our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is not just a political prisoner; he represents the hope and aspirations of millions of Biafrans. His life cannot be gambled with. The Nigerian government, aided by certain Igbo collaborators and emboldened by Britain’s double standards, continues to play reckless games with his health. This cannot be tolerated,” the statement read.
“A Brewing National Crisis”
The group likened the situation to a ticking time bomb, saying Nigeria risks igniting unrest that could destabilize the entire region. Drawing a parallel with global history, IPOB referenced the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, which triggered the First World War, stressing that governments often underestimate the consequences of suppressing legitimate movements.
“By kidnapping Nnamdi Kanu from Kenya in violation of international law, and by detaining him despite numerous court judgments, Nigeria has created a crisis. If his health continues to worsen or if he dies in custody, the consequences will be beyond imagination,” IPOB warned.
Allegations of British Complicity
The group also accused the British government of enabling Nigeria’s stance by prioritizing its geopolitical interests over justice. According to IPOB, Abuja draws false reassurance from London’s silence and tacit support, but Britain will not be able to shield Nigeria from the fallout of its actions.
“Britain may protect its neo-colonial interests, but it cannot protect Nigeria from the anger of millions of Biafrans who are watching,” the statement declared.
Call to Action
IPOB called on international human rights organizations, foreign governments, and peace advocates to intervene urgently. It stressed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration must release Kanu unconditionally and without delay if the country wishes to avoid further instability.
“This is our final warning. Nnamdi Kanu’s health and safety are non-negotiable. The games being played by the DSS and their backers are provocative and unsustainable. Nigeria is sitting on a keg of gunpowder, and if this provocation continues, IPOB will not be held responsible for what follows,” the statement concluded.