Biafra: We Ready to Discuss UN-Supervised Referendum with FG – IPOB

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared its preparedness to engage in negotiations with the Federal Government of Nigeria concerning the peaceful separation of Biafra from Nigeria through a United Nations-supervised referendum.

This announcement comes as a response to the ongoing peaceful agitation for Biafra’s independence, which IPOB claims to have initiated in 2012, characterized by a lack of violence or criminal activities on their part. However, IPOB alleges that the Federal Government has consistently targeted its members.

In a press statement released by the group’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, on Saturday, IPOB expressed deep concern over the loss of lives and property incurred due to what they perceive as excessive force used by Nigerian security forces. According to Powerful, over 5,000 IPOB members have lost their lives, and properties worth over $1 billion have been destroyed.

The statement read, “We the global family and movement of IPOB wish to reiterate once again that IPOB remains peaceful and open for negotiations and dialogue on peaceful exit of Biafra from Nigeria through a UN supervised Referendum.”

IPOB emphasized that their pursuit of Biafra’s independence has always been conducted peacefully and without violence throughout years of rallies and protests. Despite this, they allege that the Nigerian government, through its security forces, has waged war against IPOB members, leading to brutal attacks, deaths, injuries, and unjust detentions.

In response to these provocations, IPOB maintains that it has never retaliated or taken up arms against the Nigerian state, standing firm in its commitment to peace, dialogue, and discussions as the cardinal rule of its formation.

The statement continues, “The cardinal rule under which IPOB was formed is to lead the way to a peaceful separation of Biafra from Nigeria. Biafra and Nigeria are two different nations.”

IPOB has consistently called upon the Nigerian government to engage in discussions regarding a peaceful referendum date, but they claim that these calls have been met with violent suppression. They stress that their quest for self-determination aligns with international laws and regulations, asserting their inalienable right to self-determination according to UN laws.

In conclusion, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) remains resolute in their pursuit of self-determination for Biafra, emphasizing their commitment to achieving this peacefully and in accordance with international laws and regulations. Their willingness to engage in negotiations signals a potential step towards a peaceful resolution of this long-standing issue.