The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has conveyed its readiness to engage in peaceful negotiations and discussions with the Nigerian government. IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, stated that the group is open to peaceful negotiations and a United Nations (UN) supervised referendum. Powerful emphasized that IPOB is committed to pursuing a peaceful referendum within the framework of the law.
In a statement released by Powerful, he stated: “We, the global community and movement of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) under the leadership of Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, wish to reiterate our commitment to a peaceful approach and our willingness to engage in negotiations and dialogues for the peaceful realization of Biafra’s independence from Nigeria, under the supervision of the United Nations.
“IPOB’s non-violent pursuit of Biafra’s independence began in 2012, and throughout our years of rallies and protests, we have never been associated with violence or criminal activities. However, the Nigerian government, through its security forces, has waged a campaign against IPOB.
“IPOB is prepared to meet with the Nigerian government at any time they are willing to engage in discussions regarding a Biafra referendum. We advocate for a peaceful separation from the entity known as Nigeria, created by foreign powers. We firmly believe that Biafra can be achieved without resorting to war or the shedding of innocent blood, whether Biafran or Nigerian.
“We assert that IPOB has never taken up arms against the Nigerian state, but we have defended our people and our land against the threats posed by Fulani herdsmen and their supporters. IPOB has not been responsible for any loss of innocent lives and remains committed to avoiding such losses while protecting ourselves against any form of aggression.
“IPOB is ready to engage in dialogue regarding the date and procedures for a Biafra referendum. We desire peace and are fully prepared to peacefully exit Nigeria, but not at the cost of our lives. We maintain our unwavering determination and dedication to our ultimate goal, which is the attainment of Biafra’s independence through a referendum. The sooner the Nigerian government schedules a referendum for Biafrans to determine their destiny, the better for all parties.
“This message reflects the standpoint of our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB leadership, and our global family of IPOB members.
“IPOB advocates for peace, dialogue, and negotiations. The fundamental principle upon which IPOB was founded is to lead the way towards a peaceful separation of Biafra from Nigeria, recognizing that Biafra and Nigeria are distinct nations.”