Biafra Agitation Gains Momentum in US as Simon Ekpa Secures N205M Lobby Deal

Simon Ekpa, leader of the Autopilot faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has taken his campaign to the United States. Ekpa, who refers to himself as the Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government In-Exile (BRGIE), has signed a $130,000 (approximately N205 million) lobbying contract with US-based firm Moran Global Strategies (MGS) to garner international support for the cause.

The deal, designed to boost the campaign’s visibility and influence in Washington D.C., aims to secure the backing of key US lawmakers, policymakers, and think tanks. Ekpa’s strategy reflects a new phase in the quest for Biafran independence, as he seeks to leverage international platforms to draw attention to the region’s demands for self-determination.

Reports indicate that the Finland-based activist formally engaged MGS in June 2024, with a contract signed by former US lawmaker James Moran on behalf of the lobbying firm on June 10, 2024, and Ekpa signing on June 12, 2024. The agreement stipulates a monthly fee of $10,000 (approximately N15.8 million), with the contract running from June 15, 2024, to June 14, 2025. The deal is renewable on an annual basis.

Under the terms of the agreement, MGS is tasked with advocating for Biafra’s independence by engaging with members of the US government and influential third parties. The lobbying efforts will focus on promoting Biafra as a potential ally of the United States in combating Islamic terrorism and highlighting concerns about the Nigerian government’s human rights record, religious freedom issues, and its alignment with US adversaries.

MGS will also work to ensure that Biafra is recognized as the sole representative of the Biafran people, encouraging direct engagement between BRGIE and the US government, as well as advocacy by US Congress members and other stakeholders, including faith-based and human rights organizations.

This development represents a major step in the internationalization of the Biafra independence movement, as Ekpa looks to secure external support in the face of ongoing challenges in Nigeria.