BIAFRA NEWS : Simon Ekpa not fighting for Biafra – Uwazuruike

 

 

Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra/Biafra  Independence Movement (MASSOB/BIM) has said the self-acclaimed Prime Minister of Biafra in exile, Finland-based Simon Ekpa is not fighting for Biafra, but out to truncate the actualisation of the struggle.

 Founder of the Movement, Chief Ralph Uwazuruike stated this in Aba at the weekend during the 25th anniversary of the pro-Biafra group.

 Uwazuruike, represented by the Biafran Prime Minister, Ezinne Uwaezuoke Precious David, said Ekpa who claims to be the Prime Minister of Biafra in exile, cannot so be when he is preaching violence and not in touch with the situation at home.

 He insisted that the independence of Biafra can only be achieved through non violence approach which MASSOB/BIM has been advocating since 1999.

 “Simon Ekpa said he’s prime minister of Bịafra in exile. That’s his own way of seeing things. However, we believe that one must start from home to be good before going out there in the Diaspora.

 “Whatever you’re doing outside remains an outside thing until you’re back at home. When you stay at home to do whatever you’re doing or saying, people will know you’re serious and you have a stake in the nation you’re trying to build. He’s on his own in exile, but I’m out home just as UNPO approved.”

 “The young man is not fighting for the independence of Biafra; he is only causing confusion in the 

land. On the proliferation of pro Biafra groups, Uwazuruike assured that the groups would soon come together because the independence of Biafra was at hand. 

Precious David said she became the Prime Minister of Bịafra this year and was recognition by the UNPO, adding that if her election was not recognised by the UNPO, it’ll not have been successful. 

She used the occasion to reiterate the group’s insistence on non violence approach to the struggle, urging those who have taken to violence, to retrieve their steps.

BIAFRA NEWS : Biafra Declaration BRGIE met US Speaker, congressmen – Simon Ekpa claims

 

 

The Simon Ekpa-led Biafra Republic Government In-Exile, BRGIE, has claimed that its Finance Minister, Ogechukwu Nkere and the Director Biafra Foreign Affairs, USA, 

Ada Eze, held important meetings with US congressmen, including the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Congressman Mike Johnson and Congressman Jeff Van Drew to discuss Biafra Liberation and the interest of the Biafran community in the US.

He made this known in a series of statements posted on his official X account on Thursday.

Ekpa, known as the Prime Minister of BRGIE, noted that Nkere had a fruitful discussion with the US lawmakers regarding the Biafra self-referendum and the Nigerian government’s alleged marginalisation of Biafrans.

Ekpa in his statement boasted that US Speaker expressed interest in supporting Biafra’s agitation for self-rule.

According to him, the outcome of the discussion during the meetings would help in the actualization of Biafra liberation.

He added that the message of the Biafra declaration on December 2, 2024, has resonated all over the US.

Ekpa wrote, “BRGIE Minister of Finance Ogechukwu Nkere had a substantive meeting and discussion with the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Congressman Mike Johnson (R-LA), to discuss the BRGIE, developments in Biafra, and the Biafran-American community.

“This is historic and unprecedented, as Speaker Johnson is one of the most powerful individuals in the United States government and is second in the United States presidential line of succession, after the Vice President.

“Minister Nkere also had the opportunity to discuss the self-referendum and Nigeria’s marginalisation of Biafrans.

“The Speaker expressed interest in and sympathy to the Biafran cause. At the end of the meeting, the Speaker provided a commemorative gift, which contained an official insignia of the office of Speaker of the House.

“This is truly historic, as never before has the Biafran issue been presented at such a high level.”

Recall that Ekpa-led BRGIE announced December 2, 2024, as the date for the Biafra liberation declaration.

However, the Nigerian Government had maintained that it was making moves to repatriate him back to the country from Finland.

BIAFRA NEWS : Simon Ekpa fumes over alleged killing of youths in Anambra community

 

The Simon Ekpa-led Biafra Republic Government in Exile has condemned attacks and killings of Biafrans in the Ogbaru Community in Anambra state.

Viral video had emerged over the week showing dead bodies of some youths, with accompanying voice notes claiming they were killed by security agencies.

In a statement on Wednesday on Ekpa’s official X handle, he condemned the killings.

A video posted by Ekpa, who is known as the Prime Minister of BRGIE, claimed that Nigerian security forces poured gasoline on lifeless men and set them ablaze.

According to him, the incident will not deter BRGIE from pursuing Biafra Liberation.

“The nation has been thrown into mourning as the terrorists killed and

slaughtered innocent Biafra citizens in Ogbaru and destroyed their homes.

“On behalf of the Biafra Government, our condolences go to the Biafra families in Ogbaru.

“Our objective firmly remains to achieve Biafra Liberation despite the resistance of Nigeria and its institutions within the Biafra territory.

“Nothing will deter the Biafra people’s quest for freedom and Nigeria can never be allowed to become a haven for terrorists, its end has certainly come”, he said.

Meanwhile, as of the time of filing the report, the Nigerian Army has yet to deny or confirm the alleged killing in the Ogbaru community.

 reported last Friday that unknown gunmen attacked Ogbaru Local Government Area secretariat, destroying some buildings and other properties.

BIAFRA NEWS : Threat on Yoruba, Bini: Biafra Govt writes Canada in defense of Amaka Sunnberger

 

This was contained a letter signed by the Director General of Biafra Ministry of Foreign Affairs, BRGIE, Dr Joy Robi addressed to the Mayor Brampton, Canada.

Recall that Sunnberger sparked outrage after a now-viral video she posted on her Tiktok account showed that she would harm Yoruba and Edo People.

In response to Sunnberger’s comments, the Nigerian government through the Nigerian in Diaspora Commission, chaired by Abike Dabiri-Erewa on Thursday petitioned the Mayor of Brampton to persecute Sunnberger over her threatening comment.

Reacting, to the development Simon Ekpa, the Prime Minister of BRGIE had vowed to defend Sunnberger.

 o this end, Irobi in a three-page letter to the Canadian Government posted on Ekpa’s official X handle on Friday expressed concern over the inaccuracies and potential misunderstandings claimed by NiDCOM over Sunnberger.

The letter highlighted several violent remarks by individuals within the Nigerian government against Biafrans which did elicit call for persecution by the government.

“We provide below a counterargument with evidence of how the Nigerian
government that NiDCOM is representing has incited video violence and killings of
Indigenous people in Nigeria, which resulted in many people fleeing out of Nigeria to preserve their lives.

 

 

“Bayo Onanuga: I owe no-one an apology for ethnic slur against the Biafran Igbos, they are a threat to Yorubas”, the letter cited President Bola Tinubu Media Aide’s Onanuga’s comment in July 2024 as allegedly inciting violence.

 Information reaching the Biafra Government reveals that Mrs. Amaka Patience Sonnberge was traumatized by the attempted kidnap of her child in Canada by Two individuals from NiDCOM is informed that the police have taken over the matter. Of note, Biafrans living in Nigeria and abroad are suffering intensely under the incessant life threat against the Igbo race. This mental abuse has been ignored due to fear of being killed

“NIDCOM’s Chair is from a privileged Nigerian tribe with the positive attention her tribe is enjoying but ignored the intense mental suffering being mated on the Biafra people from the great Igbo race.

“Notably, Mrs. Amaka Patience Sonnberge due to the mental suffering certain tribes in
Nigeria has mated on her family in Biafra land and may have angrily misspoken due to her pain, but that is not enough for NIDCOM to be advocating for Mrs Amaka Patience Sonnberge to lose her occupation.

 “In conclusion, I firmly believe that the claims made against Mrs Amaka Patience
Sonnberge is unfounded and does not reflect the true character and contributions when
you examine the painful and mental suffering Biafrans in Nigeria are going through daily. I respectfully request that you ignore the NiDOM claims in light of the evidence provided and allow Mrs. Amaka Patien ce Sonnberge to continue to contribute positively to your community in Canada. The Biafra government will defend Mrs Amaka Patience Sonnberge against any action taken by the NIDCOM”, the letter partly reads.

BIAFRA NEWS : End Bad Governance protests , Nigerian Army arrest officer who gunned down 16-year-old protester in Kaduna

 

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of its personnel who gunned down a 16-year-old boy, Ismail Mohammed during the ongoing EndBadGovernance protest in Kaduna State.

 reports that the young boy was killed on Tuesday when the troops of the Nigerian army stormed the Samaru community in Zaria to disperse the protesters.

The security operatives were enforcing a curfew earlier imposed on the ancient city by the Kaduna State Government.

Confirming the incident, the NA in a statement issued on Tuesday night by its spokesperson, Onyema Nwachukwu said the officer responsible for the incident has been arrested.

The statement reads, “on 6 August 2024, troops of the Nigerian Army received a distress call that some hoodlums gathered in Samaru in large numbers, burning tires on the road and pelting stones on security personnel.

“The troops immediately mobilised and arrived at the scene to disperse the mob and enforce the curfew imposed by the State Government.

“On arrival at the scene, the hoodlums brazenly attempted attacking the troops prompting a soldier to fire a warning shot to scare the hoodlums away, which unfortunately led to the death of a 16-year-old boy, Ismail Mohammed.

“The soldier involved has since been arrested and undergoing interrogation as at the time of this report”.

BIAFRA NEWS : Simon Ekpa alleges assassination attempts

 

The leader of the Biafra Government In-Exile, Simon Ekpa has alleged that there is assassination attempt against him.

Ekpa disclosed this in a statement through his official X handle on Tuesday.

He claimed that a suicide bomber had been allegedly deployed from Abuja and headed for Finland.He further alleged this was the fifth attempt to take his life amid his struggle for Biafra liberation in recent times.

Ekpa said he was monitoring the situation and assured that Biafra Independence would triumph over any attempt.

“Sending suicide bombers to Finland to attack Simon Ekpa is their last option and they just departed from Abuja airport.

“This is just to inform them that we are monitoring them even from the time they dropped them at the Abuja airport, to their next destination.

“We are waiting for you suicide bomber at the port of entry. Their Finland contact knows already he is in the pot of soup.

“I remain committed to Biafra Independence, this is your 5th attempt, you are now sending terrorists to Europe.

“If you know this man called Simon Ekpa, you will stop sleeping. Let me leave it here. It is not yet time for that”, he claimed.

 

BIAFRA NEWS : S-East govs; elders, Nnamdi Kanu mourn Iwuanyanwu

 

 

 

South-East Governors’ Forum has expressed deep pain over the unfortunate demise of the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide,  Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

In a statement by Chairman of South East Governors’ Forum, and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, the forum said: “The entire region had been thrown into deep mourning by the sudden passing of  Iwuanyanwu.

  Iwuanyanwu was an outstanding national leader who served Nigeria meritoriously in various capabilities over the years.

“He was a bold, fearless and courageous defender of the truth; an unapologetic protector of the unity, peace, and indivisibility of Nigeria.

“The South East, Ndigbo and indeed Nigeria at large, have lost a rare statesman, a dependable patriot, a philanthropist, an astute manager of human and material resources, a champion of justice, equity, fairness, and inclusiveness, a resourceful business leader and entrepreneur who created jobs and employment for thousands of Nigerians.”

S-East elders too

An Igbo socio-cultural group, Igbo Elders Consultative Forum, has also lamented the deaths of some prominent Igbo personalities in July 2024.

In a statement, Wednesday, and  signed  by its Chairman,  Simon Okeke, and Secretary, Prof. Charles Nwekeakwu, the elders decried the sudden death of Chief Iwuanyanwu, Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District, Senator Ifeanyi Uba,  and music icon, Onyeka Onwenu, including another prominent son,  Ferdinand Agu.

The statement read in part, “We mourn these illustrious and much-beloved personalities. Their death is heartrending. But we thank God for the life they lived. We pray for divine grace for their families, Ndigbo, and the people of Nigeria  to bear these irreparable losses.

Nnamdi Kanu mourns  

Similarly, Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Iwuanyanwu, and other eminent Igbo personalities.

He also expressed sadness over the death of a former Governor of Abia State and Minister for Science and Technology,  Ogbonnaya Onu; Senator Ifeanyi Ubah; and music  icon, Onyeka Onwenu.

Kanu’s condolences for the affected personalities were  conveyed by his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, who visited  him Wednesday at the Abuja headquarters of  the Department for State Services, DSS, where he is currently detained.

The statement made available to Vanguard read:”Today, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu directed me to convey his heartfelt sympathies to the families of  Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, Senator Ifeanyi Uba and Dame Onyeka Onwenu.

“Kanu is pained at their demise and as he mourns, he sends his comfort to Ndigbo and  requests that none  should speak  ill  of  the departed, as such is repugnant to Igbo traditions. He sees these deaths to be too many in so  short a time and calls for  prayers to avert too many deaths from the land.”

“Onyeka Onwenu in particular was very close to Onyendu, who found her private advice to be invaluable. MNK recalls that Onyeka was a firm believer in freedom and that she lived a fulfilled life that guaranteed her eternal rest in heaven.”

BIAFRA NEWS : Igbo want Biafra nation, not interested in hunger protest – IPOB

 

 

The separatist Indigenous People of Biafra, on Wednesday, warned the Igbo people against joining the ongoing hunger or #EndBadGovernance protest across the country.

The pro-Biafran group insisted that Igbo people were fed up with Nigerian affairs and wanted only a referendum to exit the country and form their Biafra nation.

While asking Nigerians to carry their cross and enjoy their “Emilokan” – President Bola Tinubu’s campaign slogan –  IPOB said if there was any for the Igbo to protest, it would be to demand the release of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, and a date to demand a referendum to leave Nigeria.

The group stated this in a statement on Thursday by its spokesman, Emma Powerful.

“What we are interested in now is for President Bola Tinubu to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and give us a date for the Biafran referendum for Biafrans to decide their fate in Nigeria or an independent Biafra Nation,” IPOB said.

While warning Igbo people not to join the hunger protest, IPOB alleged that there were plans to create a crisis and blame it on the Igbo people so they could be attacked.

It urged Igbo people living outside the South-East to concentrate on protecting themselves and their property while the protest lasted instead of participating.

It said, “Ndigbo should be careful and know that they are hated and targeted across the contraption called Nigeria.

“Furthermore, the false accusations against IPOB and Mr Peter Obi by the Federal Government as the sponsors of the proposed protest are part of the sinister plan and agenda to target Ndigbo for elimination.

“The false alarm that IPOB and Ndigbo are sponsoring the protest is another false flag operation targeted at killing Ndigbo during the protest.

“Neither, Ndigbo nor IPOB called for the Nigerians to protest against the leadership’s disastrous performance in Nigeria. Interestingly, both the IPOB, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and many other Igbo groups have warned Ndigbo not to join the proposed peaceful national protest against hardship and hunger in the wider Nigeria.

“We have maintained that Nigerians must carry their cross and enjoy their Emilokan. Ndigbo do not know what Emilokan means.  Sadly, the Federal Government and her proxies are falsely accusing Ndigbo and IPOB as the sponsors of the protest. We have no hand in it.

“Therefore, all the Biafrans in the North and the West must understand that they are outside their region and should endeavour to defend themselves and their properties. As much as possible, refrain from joining either the planned peaceful protest or the hired pro-government protest.

“Should you expose yourself, you and your business will be the main target, not other tribes. Understand that you are not loved in the supposed country of the zoo called Nigeria that some of you claim to be part of.”

 

 

BIAFRA NEWS : Don’t join #EndBadGovernance protest, IPOB tells Ndigbo

 

 

The Independent People of Biafra has called on Ndigbo across the country not to join the ongoing nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest.

The pro-Biafran group said rather than joining the protest, Ndigbo should be security alert and protect their lives and property during and after the protest.

The group added that both IPOB, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and many other Igbo groups have already warned them not to join the protest.

They alleged that a security report at its disposal indicated that security agencies had concluded plans to carry out targeted attacks against the Ndigbo during the protest.

In a statement on Thursday, the group, through its spokesman, Emma Powerful, claimed that there were also plans to sponsor criminal elements in the South-East to carry out violent protests to provide opportunities for the security agencies to launch attacks against Ndigbo during this period.

The statement said, “Therefore, Ndigbo should be careful and know that they are hated and targeted across the contraption called Nigeria.

“Furthermore, the false accusations against IPOB and Mr Peter Obi by the Federal Government as the sponsors of the proposed protest are part of the sinister plan and agenda to target Ndigbo for elimination.

“The false alarm that IPOB and Ndigbo are sponsoring the protest is another false flag operation targeted at killing Ndigbo during the protest.

“Neither, Ndigbo nor IPOB called for the Nigerians to protest against the leadership’s disastrous performance in Nigeria. Interestingly, both the IPOB, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and many other Igbo groups have warned Ndigbo not to join the proposed peaceful national protest against hardship and hunger in the wider Nigeria.

The group said although Ndigbo are facing the same economic hardship that others are facing, they are usually the victims of any protest in Nigeria.

The statement added, “We must learn our lessons. If need be, the only protests that Ndigbo should sponsor and fully participate in are the protest for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and a call or a UN-supervised referendum.

“What we are interested in now is for President Bola Tinubu to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and give us a date for the Biafran referendum for Biafrans to decide their fate in Nigeria or an independent Biafra Nation.

“As the hunger protest plans rage, Ndigbo must ensure that they defend themselves and their properties against hoodlums and tribal bigots who will capitalise on the protest to loot their materials in our shops.

“Moreso, every Igbo person in the East, North and West must be on security alert during this period of their protest.  Ndigbo will be the target of the federal government’s brutal force during the proposed peaceful protest. Don’t be a victim.”

BIAFRA NEWS : Politically release Nnamdi Kanu – Igbo World Congress tells Tinubu

 

 

The World Igbo Congress, WIC, has urged President Bola Tinubu to politically release Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.

WIC said history would document Tinubu’s decision to release the IPOB leader who has been incarcerated since June 2021.

In a statement by its Chairman, Festus Okere and Secretary-General, Chris Ogara; WIC also acknowledged the recent, significant meeting of the Southeast governors, withdistinguished personalities, including the Obi of Onitsha, over Kanu’s continued detention.

The statement reads: “Among their unanimous decisions made public is their resolve to meet President

Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering release of our kinsman, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, which is justifiably

overdue.

“World Igbo Congress is itching to hear the outcome of their agreed meeting. Time is the soul of the world. A prolonged inaction destroys peoples’ hope. Let actions speak louder than voice.

“WIC stands firmly with our governors in this overly concerned matter. We also recognize and salute all persons who have continued, in numerous documented occasions, to support the call for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.

“WIC, again, urges President Tinubu to politically release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. History remains a true account of the past.”

 

BIAFRA NEWS : Reps caucus backs calls for Nnamdi Kanu, others’ release

 

 

The Southeast caucus of the House of Representatives has expressed support for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. 

The caucus, in a statement, on Wednesday, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consider the release of Kanu and others in a similar situation. The lawmakers noted that the IPOB leader’s release remains the most effective way of restoring peace in the Southeast.

 

The South East caucus in the statement which was signed by all the 43 members from the zone, including the deputy speaker, Benjamin Kalu, noted that the the appeal for an out-of-court settlement of Kanu’s case was also supported by the Federal High Court.

The group added that a political solution is one of the quickest ways of bringing an end to the matter and in turn, restoring peace in the Southeast region.

 

The statement reads: “A few days ago, at the resumed hearing of the case against Mazi Nnamdi Kanu currently pending at an Abuja Federal High Court, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, the issue of the out-of-court settlement of the matter was discussed between Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

 

“According to newspaper reports, and our verified accounts of proceedings from those who were in court on that day, the court displayed sufficient support for the out-of-court settlement of this case, being one of the acceptable canons of dispute resolution in our civil and criminal jurisprudence.

“As a Caucus of the House of Representatives from where Mazi Nnamdi Kanu hails, we have taken

 

liberty, in consonance with parliamentary practice, to seek the support of other Regional caucuses of the House of Representatives, to achieve a quick and responsible resolution of the seemingly intractable Mazi Nnamdi Kanu case, a legal impasse that is undoubtedly the missing puzzle in solving the lingering security conundrum in the south East of Nigeria.

 

“We, therefore, as Representatives of the five Southeast states in the House of Representatives, urge Mr President, to consider the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and his other similarly detained followers.

“We are convinced that a political settlement of this matter by way of an out-of-court settlement, as canvassed before Justice Binta Nyako, is the quickest, most effective, and honorable way of closing this difficult and painful chapter of our national history.”

BIAFRA NEWS : Eze Aro calls for true federalism, Kanu’s release at coronation

 

The paramount ruler of Arochukwu kingdom, and Eze Aro the 9th, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Eberechukwu Kanu Oji on Saturday, called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to embrace true federalism and release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from detention.

The Eze Aro made this call during his coronation ceremony in Arochukwu, stating, “To the Nigerian federal authorities, I extend the respectful call for a genuine embrace of true federalism. Marginalization and exclusion must give way to inclusion, fairness, and justice.

The monarch noted, “The Igbo people, with their remarkable contributions and rich cultural heritage, deserve a central place at the heart of our nation’s development. Let us build a Nigeria where every ethnic group, including the Igbos, can thrive and contribute to a truly united, progressive and sustainable nationhood, thereby fostering a peaceful environment, where every citizen feels a sense of belonging.”

The royal father also pleaded, “Along these lines, I seize this opportunity to lend my voice to the concerted calls on His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the release of our son, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, from his command detention. His release, already sanctioned by court injunctions, is overdue and will be in the interest of promoting peace and justice in Nigeria.”

Speaking on the contested throne, the Eze Aro assured, “I am committed to bringing utmost dignity and attracting the highest respect to the throne of Eze Aro. I promise to lead with the fear of God and respect for everyone.”

I pledge before you today to lead this renaissance with steadfast dedication, harnessing the strength, resilience and ingenuity of our people.

“Going forward, I will continue to engage in regional and national efforts that align with my agenda of elevating the Arochukwu kingdom to new hands of glory and development by putting God first, upholding our age-long cultural ideals and abiding by our kingdom’s motto, ‘Ako bu ije’.

“Our unity and progress are inexplicable ways to the broader aspirations of the Igbo people. By fostering collaboration and mutual support across the Eastern Nigeria land, we can unlock the potential that lies within every Igbo and indeed Aro community. Our shared history, our shared values and our shared ambitions must guide us towards a future where the Igbo nation stands tall, contributing significantly to the Nigerian federation’s growth and prosperity.”

Speaking during the coronation ceremony, the governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, commended the Aro people for making the right and best choice in choosing His Royal Majesty Dr Oji as the 9th Eze Aro of Aro Kingdom, stating, “I do not doubt that majority of Aro people are very happy with what is happening here today. There may be one or two people that are not happy, but is not our business to make everybody happy.

“Let me make one point clear; any society that does not have leadership is cursed. And, leadership comes neither from the East, West, North or South. The Bible recorded that power comes from God. And in His own time, He makes things beautiful. So, I would like to use what happened in Aro and reconnect it to other societies. Why do I say so? Gone are the days when people choose the worst rather than the best as leaders.

“I want to say without any fear of contradiction, that the Aro people made the best choice. From what I have seen, from what I have read, from what I have heard about the Eze Aro the 9th, he is the best in his class.

“He is the type of leader which every society should aim to have. A leader who will invest in the community rather than stealing from the community, a leader who will show the light rather than initiating people into darkness, and a leader who has a second address (a profession).

“This is because, if you don’t have a second address, then where you are becomes your second address and the tendency is for people who don’t have a second address to begin to dip their hands in the till.

“I can see that the Eze Aro of Arochukwu will not deep his hands into the till, but on the other hand, contribute his resources to the development of the Aro community.”

BIAFRA NEWS : Nationwide Protest: Ndigbo shuns protest, opens markets, demands unconditional release of Kanu

 

 

 

 

 as UNIEC says no to protest, demands Justice for all, not differential, selective or ad hoc justice for few Nigerians.

…makes 10-point demand from Tinubu for Nigeria to have peace.

All markets, stores and artisan’s shops in Nnewi the industrial town and Onitsha the commercial city of Anambra State, opened for business as traders and youths shun the #EndBadGovernance# nationwide protest that started today across the country.

As usual as early as 6:30 am commercial buses and tricycle movement were noticeable on the roads and streets in Nnewi and Onitsha, conveying traders and artisans to their respective markets, stores and shops in the towns.

Ndigbo had severally made their opposition known to the planned protests or 10 days of rage that started today.

One Igbo vocal group that made their opposition categorically clear to the protest is the United Igbo Elders Council, UNIEC, Worldwide, and their stand according to a statement they issued Thursday morning is “based essentially on the differential attitude to human rights that the organizers have shown towards the Igbo/East in particular, and other Nigerians as well.”

UNIEC, in the statement signed by its Director, Media and Publicity, Prof. Obasi lgwe and its Coordinator General, His Lordship Alpha Justice, said that “The loud silence, signalling acquiescence, of some of its organizers to the extremely targeted injustices against the Igbo/East and, for the last nine years, orchestrated killings, with countless evidences of official involvement or connivance, with no sympathy from anywhere, baffles imagination.

UNIEC further stated that “Right now, even before the August date, the Igbo are already being threatened, attacked and molested in Lagos with no word of condemnation by those said to be fighting against bad government.”

“Nevertheless, the Igbo population, being the major victims, understands the Nigerian situation very well, and know what can be  done to address it, starting with ending the unparalleled oppression of Easterners.”UNIEC statement entitled, Rage or Protest in Nigeria: Position of the United Igbo Elders Council, UNIEC, Worldwide, rather made ten-point demand on Mr President to stabilize Nigeria instead of supporting the protest.

BIAFRA NEWS : Nnamdi Kanu calls for prayer to avert too many deaths in Igboland

 

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, has expressed pain over the deaths of Ohanaeze President-General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, former Minister Ogbonnaya Onu, Senator Ifeanyi Uba, and Onyeka Onwenu.

Kanu called for prayers to avert too many deaths in Igbo land.

The IPOB leader also cautioned against speaking ill about Iwuanyanwu, Onu, Uba, and Onwenu because it’s against Igbo tradition.Kanu disclosed this during his routine meeting with his legal team at the Department of State Services facility in Abuja.

Making Kanu’s remark public, his lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, said: “Today, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu directed me to convey his heartfelt sympathies to the families of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, Senator Ifeanyi Uba and Dame Onyeka Onwenu.

“MNK is pained at their demise and as he mourns, he sends his comfort to Ndigbo and requests that none should speak ill of the departed, as such is repugnant to Igbo traditions.

“He sees these deaths to be too many in so short a time and calls for prayers to avert too many deaths from the land.

“Onyeka Onwenu in particular was very close to Onyendu, who found her private advice to be invaluable. MNK recalls that Onyeka was a firm believer in freedom and that she lived a fulfilled life that guaranteed her eternal rest in heaven.”

BIAFRA NEWS : Ohanaeze youths dissociate selves from planned protest

 

Igbo youths have said they would not be part of the proposed nationwide protest over the growing hardship in the country.

 

 They argued that it was better for the people of the region to continue to engage with the government to address their grievances than participating in a protest they did not know the organisers.

They made their position known at an emergency convention by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing Worldwide, comprising various youth groups from the five South East states and Igbo speaking parts of Delta and Rivers states.

National Leader of Ohanaeze Youth Wing, Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, said the Igbo had every cause to protest the long years of marginalisation and neglect they had suffered in Nigeria.

“There are so many reasons the Igbo youths should protest, including the unwarranted detention of so many Igbo youths, especially Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, in facilities across the country; the destruction of Igbo property in towns and cities like Lagos and Abuja. In addition, Igbo youths are not included in governance; the South East has the least number of states, only five, where others have six and more, there’s a dearth of national infrastructure in our zone. Since I was born, I have not seen critical national infrastructure in the South East,” he stated.

However, the Ohanaeze youth leader added: “But we are aware that once protest begins, the Igbo will suffer most. They will target the property of our people to loot and destroy. So, what benefit will our people get if our properties are destroyed?

“That’s why we decided to come and deliberate. We want our voice to be heard on what is happening in Nigeria. Two, we want to make dem

“Our demand is that all Igbo youths held in various detention facilities in Nigeria are immediately released, including Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

“We also demand that Igbo youths be appointed into the government; this will be from the youths gathered here. Igbo youths demand appointment and accommodation in the government.

“We are also demanding the creation of one more state in the South East for the sake of justice, equity and fairness.

“We also demand that the South East Governors convene a meeting with the Igbo youths,” he stated.

Okpalaezeukwu passionately appealed to President Tinubu to grant the Igbo youths audience to present their case.

Notwithstanding, the Igbo youths applauded President Tinubu over the recent signing into law of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) Bill.

The youths declare that with the SEDC, the 30-month civil war which ended in 1970, with their people still suffering its effects, has actually ended.

“For us, this commission has actually ended the civil war. We are demanding that the commission should be run in a way that the Igbo youths are part of it. In fact, the youth should chair the commission,” they stated.

It is noteworthy that the resolutions were taken after putting the item to voice vote. Having got the overwhelming approval of the teeming participants, the national youth leader of Ohanaeze declared: “What we are saying is that we, the Igbo youths in the South East, after consultation with the Igbo youths across Nigeria, have resolved not to participate in the proposed protest.”

BIAFRA NEWS : Once Tinubu Releases Nnamdi Kanu, We Will Report All Criminals In South-East To Army, Police — Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu

                             

While speaking in a live broadcast which SaharaReporters monitored on Arise News, Benjamin mentioned that there was no justification for the continued detention of Kanu by the Nigerian government. 

Benjamin Kalu, deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. 

While speaking in a live broadcast which SaharaReporters monitored on Arise News, Benjamin mentioned that there was no justification for the continued detention of Kanu by the Nigerian government. 

He said “Let me come to Nnamdi Kanu, my words to Mr President is that we are not forcing you. We cannot coerce you as a commander-in-chief. We cannot force you. You are our leader, you are our president. But we are appealing to you. In the same sense of trying to heal the South East, in this spirit of equity, in this spirit of fairness, other people like him who were incarcerated have been released. 

“Extend this equity to our brother. Let him come out, so that any other person that carries arms on the streets of the South East, we will be the one calling the soldiers, the military, and the police to shut them down because they are just common criminals. 

“The South East Development Commission is a healing balm from President Tinubu to the region.

“Since 1970, South Easterners were promised the three Rs, Reconciliation, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation. It has been in words for over five decades, and no president has had the courage to take action on it until now.

“President Bola Tinubu decided to be courageous and end the war that has been raging in the hearts of the South Easterners by fulfilling the promise of 54 years by bringing out a new agency. He did it without making noise.

“Special problems demand special intervention, and it’s all about strategy for anyone development-oriented. Former President Buhari, in view of what was happening in the North East, brought an intervention using the regional development agencies to carry out some intervention, and the resultant effect of that is tremendous and unrecognisable. 

“This is what is needed to carry out the intervention that the South Easterners have been longing for 54 years.”

“We are very grateful, and that’s why I’m calling on the youth in the South East to say no to protest and yes to process. This is the time of laying the foundation.”

Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, Special Counsel for the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, had also noted that President Tinubu lacked the moral authority to keep the IPOB leader in detention over his Biafra Nation agitation.

Ejimakor had said there was no difference between Kanu’s Biafra Nation agitation and Tinubu’s declaration in 1997 in an interview published by ThisDay, where he said he did not believe in one Nigeria and nothing was done to him.

ThisDay on April 13, 1997, published an interview granted by Tinubu titled ‘I Don’t Believe In One Nigeria’, where he declared that he did not believe in one Nigeria as championed by the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe.

Tinubu was interviewed by Ayo Arowolo, the current Chief of Staff (CoS) to the Chairman of Arise Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena.

Ejimakor on Thursday in a post on his X account said having declared his disbelief in one Nigeria, Tinubu as Nigeria’s President should not continue to keep Kanu who also expressed similar sentiment in detention.

 

BIAFRA NEWS : Efforts to release Nnamdi Kanu ongoing, says Deputy Speaker Kalu

                           

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has expressed optimism about the eventual release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, saying talks were still ongoing in that regard. 

Kalu who spoke at an APC stakeholders meeting in Umuahia, the Abia state capital, also emphasised the need for peace in Abia chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC), saying that faction is old fashioned. 

While saying the APC has achieved a lot, he revealed that an appeal is still ongoing to the President to release the IPOB. 

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the South East Development Commission (SEDC) bill into law, telling  the meeting that APC government made it possible. 

Speaking on the need for unity in the state chapter of the APC, he said “Let’s embrace each other. In that kind of atmosphere, you achieve a lot. Many people are coming into the party. They can’t come in to meet a divided house. A house divided against itself cannot stand. 

“Let’s strengthen our foundation, respect the leadership of the party. No matter how familiar you might be with the executive, respect them. The law has put them in charge. Give honour to whom honour is due. I am encouraging you to be proud of our party. We are achieving a lot. Be bold. 

“APC broke the jinx of 54 years and gave us the South East Development Commission. It couldn’t fly in 8th and 9th Assemblies but in this 10th assembly, I dusted and expanded it, lobbied and it passed. 

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu graciously signed into law, thereby giving us what we couldn’t get from 54 years post civil war policy of Reconciliation, Reconstruction and Rehabilitation. It is huge and will give your children jobs and build roads. 

“We are still appealing to Mr. President to release our brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to us and it’s still APC that will do that. So, be proud of APC. 

 Please, open your hands. Don’t discriminate. Shun factions. Factions are old fashioned. It doesn’t work. If you have tried a particular thing many times and it didnt work, you have to change. I don’t do factions in APC. 

“Please, ensure that the next caucus meeting is enlarged to include the people whose suspension has been lifted. I want to commend the Executive for lifting the suspension. The doors are now open. Bring your contributions. Together, let’s make the journey easier”.

Kalu later moved a motion for the lifting of suspension imposed on some members of the party in the state and emphasized the need to reintroduce monthly levies in the party. 

He encouraged the party faithful to make financial commitments to help run the affairs of the party.

The meeting was attended by the party’s governorship candidate in 2023, High Chief Ikechi Emenike; Abia APC Chairman, Dr. Kingsley Ononogbu; former Abia Assembly and federal commissioner representing South East in FCT Civil Service Commission, Rt. Hon. Martins Azubuike; former Minister of Labour and Productivity; Chief Emeka Wogu and another Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji. 

Other dignitaries at the meeting include the former Minister of State for Science Technology and Innovation and Chairman, Governing Board, Federal Polytechnic, Nakede, Imo State; former member of the House of Representatives and currently, Baord member of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and the member representing Abia in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NNDC), Chief Eruba Dimgba amongst others.

BIAFRA NEWS : Simon Ekpa claims 49 million have voted in ‘self-referendum’

                          

The head of Biafra Republic Government in Exile, Simon Ekpa has claimed that over 49 million Igbos have voted in a ‘self-referendum’.

Ekpa disclosed this in a statement posted on his official X handle on Saturday.

The Biafra agitator claimed that the voting process was e-voting and physical voting

“Over 49 million Biafrans have voted in the ongoing Biafra self-referendum,” he claimed.

Ekpa said the process began in February, claiming that the number of those who have voted for self-referendum in the last six months surpassed the number of voters in the 2023 Nigerian presidential election.

He said the exercise will last till November.

BRGIE had cited marginalization, underdevelopment, insecurity and poverty in the South-East region as justification for the self-referendum.

 

BIAFRA NEWS : Free Nnamdi Kanu, you were once against one-Nigeria – Ejimakor to Tinubu

                              

Aloy Ejimakor, the lead Counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, on Thursday, charged President Bola Tinubu to free the Biafra agitator.

Ejimakor said Tinubu had risen to become Nigeria’s president despite his past stance against one-Nigeria.

In an interview with Thisday on April 13th, 1997, Tinubu had said ‘I don’t believe in one Nigeria’.

However, posting on X, Ejimakor wrote: “Free Nnamdi Kanu because you were also once against one Nigeria

“In 1997, Tinubu proclaimed that he doesn’t believe in #OneNigeria but he went scot-free & became President. So, where lies the moral authority to detain MAZI NNAMDI KANU that said nothing different?”

 

The IPOB leader has remained locked up by the Department of State Services, DSS, on the orders of the Nigerian government.

Kanu has been locked up since he was rearrested in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria to face his trial over his agitation for the actualization of Biafra.

Despite court rulings granting him bail, the Nigerian government has refused to let him off the hook.

BIAFRA NEWS : Finally, Nnamdi Kanu Granted Access To Personal Doctor

                               

Less than 24 hours after the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) demanded his unconditional release with complaints surrounding his health, embattled IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu has been allowed to see his personal physician.

Kanu’s Special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, announced on Wednesday that the Department of State Services (DSS) had now allowed the IPOB leader to gain access to his medical doctor.

LEADERSHIP recalls that Ejimakor, together with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) raised an alarm that the DSS denied his access to his medical doctor despite formal requests made to them concerning his deteriorating health condition.

IPOB spokesperson, Emma Powerful had on Wednesday issued a statement urging the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally to avert potential danger. 

Mr Ejimakor, in a post on his X handle on Wednesday confirmed that the DSS has now allowed Kanu’s doctor to see him on Wednesday.

“Today, SSS finally allowed Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s physician to see him.

“The doctor’s preliminary report presented complex medical conditions that require Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to be taken to a hospital for a more detailed diagnosis.

“This will follow a report that will be sent to DG-SSS by the doctor,” Ejimakor said.

Ejimakor however did not disclose if the DSS had consented  to the movement of Kanu to a hospital for treatment.