IPOB warns Igbo leaders against exploiting Nnamdi Kanu’s name for political gain

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a strong warning to Igbo politicians and leaders to stop using their leader Nnamdi Kanu’s name for personal or political gain.

In a press statement released on Monday, IPOB spokesman Emma Powerful accused some Igbo leaders of exploiting Kanu’s detention to further their political ambitions while secretly working with the Federal Government to keep him imprisoned.

IPOB clarified that Kanu’s incarceration stems from his fight for Biafran independence, not Nigerian politics. The group acknowledged and praised the genuine efforts of some Igbo politicians who are working towards Kanu’s release and promised to expose those who misuse IPOB’s progress for personal gain.

The statement warned that continued detention of Kanu could negatively impact Nigeria’s economy and security, and vowed to thwart the political ambitions of those leveraging his suffering for their own benefit. It read:

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“Some of these Abuja sycophants take glory in IPOB matters to resuscitate their dwindling political influence in the South-East. We are watching them closely. We are advising them to stop taking credit for IPOB’s successes or risk being called out publicly.

“However, we commend the patriotic and sincere Igbo politicians and leaders genuinely working for Kanu’s release. We encourage them to persist. We are closely monitoring everyone’s actions related to IPOB, and in due time, all will receive their due reward, whether good or bad.

“We want the Federal Government and its political operatives from the South-East to understand that as long as Kanu remains unlawfully detained, Nigeria’s economy and security will remain in turmoil. Those exploiting Kanu’s and IPOB members’ suffering to advance their political careers will be disappointed as IPOB will challenge their ambitions.”

This statement reflects IPOB’s frustration with Igbo politicians whom they believe are capitalizing on Kanu’s situation, and underscores the group’s determination to secure his release and pursue Biafran independence.