The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has pushed back against its inclusion in a newly released terrorism-related list by the Federal Government, describing the move as misleading and unjustified.
In a statement issued on Monday, spokesperson Emma Powerful said the group is not involved in terrorism or the funding of violent activities.
The reaction follows the publication of a sanctions list by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee, operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser. The list reportedly names 48 individuals and 12 organisations linked to terrorism financing.
IPOB was listed alongside groups such as Jama’atu Wal-Jihad, Ansarul Sudan, and ISWAP, as well as several business entities.
‘We Are Not a Terrorist Group’
IPOB insisted that its activities are centred on self-determination and not violence. The group accused the Federal Government of wrongly categorising it to discredit its cause.
It also alleged that security agencies have repeatedly disrupted its peaceful gatherings in the South-East, claiming that civilians, including women and children, have been affected.
Raises Concerns Over Kanu’s Detention
The group referenced the arrest and continued detention of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, describing it as part of what it called a broader clampdown on its members.
IPOB further argued that the terrorism list is designed to silence dissenting voices rather than address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Despite the development, the group maintained that it will continue its agitation for self-determination.
