By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has distanced itself from the conviction of Simon Ekpa in Finland, insisting that his activities and organisations have no connection with the movement.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB accused the Nigerian government of trying to use Ekpa’s case to damage its image and influence the ongoing trial of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
“The claim that Simon Ekpa is part of IPOB is false and misleading. A Finnish court has already confirmed that he is not a member of our organisation,” the group stated.
According to IPOB, Ekpa openly declared under oath that he was not a member of IPOB, describing himself as a “content creator” who had disowned the group. IPOB also noted that he went on to establish his own separate outfits, including the “Biafra Government in Exile,” the “Biafra Liberation Army,” and the “Biafra Defence Force.”
The movement argued that attempts to link it to Ekpa’s conviction were deliberate efforts by the Federal Government to divert attention from Kanu’s legal battle. IPOB said the delay in ruling on Kanu’s no-case submission was part of a wider “smear campaign” to frustrate justice.
The group urged the international community — including the EU, UN, UK, US, and Finland — to caution Nigeria against “misusing” Ekpa’s trial to discredit IPOB.
“Simon Ekpa’s conviction is his personal matter. IPOB will not bear responsibility for it. Our focus remains on pursuing self-determination peacefully under international law,” the statement added.
IPOB also warned that continued attempts to associate it with Ekpa could further damage Nigeria’s global standing, accusing the government of undermining the rule of law.
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