The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) on Sunday condemned the life sentence given to its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, and criticised his transfer to a prison in Sokoto State, warning that the move threatens his safety and could hinder his right of appeal.
In a statement signed by Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, the group described the sentence and transfer as “malicious” and accused them of being part of a sustained campaign against Kanu and the Biafra self-determination movement.
IPOB called on the federal government to guarantee Kanu’s safety and to ensure that his legal rights, including the ability to pursue appeals are not blocked.
The group also raised concerns over security challenges in parts of north-west Nigeria, saying moving Kanu to a Sokoto facility increases risks to his wellbeing.
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IPOB urged the international community to take note and demanded that the government respect constitutional principles such as the Federal Character principle.
While reaffirming that IPOB considers itself a peaceful and disciplined movement, the statement said the only way to ease tensions is for the government to allow Biafrans to exercise self-determination through a United Nations-supervised referendum, adding that IPOB would accept the outcome.
The group urged Nigerians and the international community to “ensure that no harm befalls Mazi Nnamdi Kanu” and to monitor that his right of appeal is protected.