By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has dismissed allegations in a recent Amnesty International report linking it to violent sit-at-home orders in Nigeria’s South-East.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB reiterated its non-violent stance and said it had officially cancelled all sit-at-home directives since July 24, 2023.
“Any acts of violence associated with sit-at-home orders are not authorised by IPOB,” the statement read.
The group expressed concern that the Amnesty report, which cited unnamed experts questioning its claims, could mislead the public and wrongly associate it with criminal activities in the region.
IPOB maintained that it has consistently pursued its self-determination agenda through lawful means, including community engagement, media advocacy, and legal action, and noted that no court has convicted it of violent crimes.
It also referenced a 2022 Court of Appeal ruling that discharged its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, from previous charges, while criticising his continued detention.
The group urged Amnesty International and global media outlets to ensure accuracy in reporting on peaceful movements, warning that misleading narratives could endanger its members.
It reaffirmed its commitment to non-violence in line with international human rights standards.
