21st July, 2021
By Funmilola Olukomaiya
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has explained why Simon Ekpa may no longer continue as a broadcaster on Radio Biafra.
IPOB disclosed that Ekpa upon his appointment has refused to follow laid down rules of operation in Radio Biafra, hence the need to discontinue with his services.
Ekpa was engaged as a broadcaster on Radio Biafra shortly after Nnamdi Kanu, leader of IPOB was rearrested.
The group stressed that Ekpa’s services may no longer be needed because he has refused to sign the rules of engagement and code of conduct guiding those broadcasting on Radio Biafra.
A statement by IPOB Spokesperson, Emma Powerful, reads: “The global family of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) ably led by our great leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has observed with regrets, that Mazi Simon Ekpa whom our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu gave an appointment and duty to start broadcasting on Radio Biafra doesn’t want to follow the laid down rules of operation in Radio Biafra. Our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu gave the directive while in detention but Mazi Simon Ekpa has refused to follow the principles.
“Mazi Simon Ekpa has refused to sign the rules of engagement and code of conduct guiding those broadcasting on Radio Biafra. We don’t understand why Mazi Ekpa would not like to follow the steps of other broadcasters on the platform who have since done the needful.
“IPOB is a big movement, and cannot just change the rules because of one individual as this may set a bad precedence. Mazi Simon Ekpa is a hardworking Biafran whose immense contributions towards the restoration of Biafra are highly appreciated, but for not signing the code of conduct as a broadcaster on Radio Biafra, he may not continue to have the opportunity of broadcasting via the platform.
“This decision was not intended to ridicule or undermine anyone but to prove to all that due process cannot be compromised in IPOB. IPOB is a well-structured movement where the activities of members are regulated with well-thought-out rules. No one should act in a way that suggests that the laws are meant for a certain group of people.
“While Mazi Simon Ekpa has the right to make his broadcasts on Facebook and other platforms of his choice, he may no longer broadcast on Radio Biafra as one of the official broadcasters.”