JUST IN: Court Frees 12 IPOB Members After Four Years in Detention

Twelve members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have been released from prison by the Ebonyi State High Court, nearly four years after their arrest on May 24, 2021. The decision was made on Thursday, April 10, following a formal application by the state’s Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).

According to Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, legal counsel for the IPOB members, the released individuals are part of a larger group of 36 supporters detained since 2021. Despite several court rulings over the years acquitting them of all charges, the 12 had remained in custody until the latest judgment.

Ejiofor explained that the DPP acknowledged previous judicial pronouncements and formally withdrew the latest charges, which led to the court’s immediate order for their release. He confirmed that the directive was promptly implemented, describing the move as a long-overdue recognition of the rule of law and a reaffirmation of the detainees’ innocence.

The IPOB lawyer reiterated that the legal team remains dedicated to securing the release of the remaining detained members. He stated that no fewer than four separate High Courts in Ebonyi State have already acquitted the rest of the group. “Their release is no longer a matter of if but when, and that moment draws closer by the day,” Ejiofor said.