IPOB Distances Itself from Simon Ekpa Following Finland Arrest, Denounces Alleged Ties

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the leadership of the detained Nnamdi Kanu, has firmly denied any affiliation with Simon Ekpa, who styles himself as the “Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE).”

This follows reports of Ekpa’s detention in Finland, where a district court in Lahti ordered his remand for alleged terrorist activities.

In a statement issued on Friday by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the group clarified that Ekpa has never been a member of IPOB in any capacity or location, including Finland. IPOB described Ekpa as an infiltrator allegedly working to undermine the peaceful pursuit of Biafra self-determination.

“For public records, Simon Ekpa has never been a member of IPOB led by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who has been illegally detained in solitary confinement by the Nigerian Government for almost four years,” the statement read.

Disassociating from Violence

IPOB emphasized its commitment to peaceful advocacy for Biafra’s independence through a supervised UN referendum, stating that it has operated without resorting to violence or armed struggle for over two decades. The group accused Ekpa and his associates of propagating violent activities in the South East, which it said runs counter to IPOB’s principles.

“Simon Ekpa’s group, under the banner of the so-called Biafra Liberation Army, has engaged in kidnappings, assaults, and destruction in the name of Biafra agitation. IPOB unequivocally rejects this violent approach,” the statement added.

The group further alleged that Ekpa’s actions have been exploited by Nigerian authorities to malign IPOB’s peaceful objectives, linking his activities to a conspiracy by politicians and security agencies to discredit its movement.

Call for Separation of IPOB from Ekpa

IPOB urged media outlets, the Finnish government, and international observers to avoid associating Simon Ekpa or his actions with IPOB. It reiterated its nonviolent stance and appealed to all supporters of Biafra’s restoration to remain calm and focus on the ongoing efforts to secure Nnamdi Kanu’s release.

“IPOB does not engage in violent agitation or attacks on civilians or security forces. Simon Ekpa’s actions do not represent IPOB, and we strongly disassociate from his activities,” the group said.

A Day of Reckoning

The statement concluded with a call for accountability, asserting that Ekpa and his associates must eventually face justice for their alleged crimes. IPOB reaffirmed its dedication to achieving Biafra’s independence through peaceful and lawful means.