IPOB rejects Amnesty report, reaffirms end of sit-at-home orders
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Reaffirming its commitment to non-violence, IPOB insisted that its activities remain rooted in international human rights norms and lawful expression.
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has responded to Amnesty International’s recent report on insecurity in Nigeria’s Southeast, rejecting what it described as a misrepresentation of its role in the enforcement of violent sit-at-home orders.
In a statement released by its spokesperson, Comrade Emma Powerful, the group reiterated its long-standing commitment to non-violence and distanced itself from any acts of violence linked to the sit-at-home directive, which it said was officially cancelled in July 2023.
“Since July 24, 2023, IPOB has publicly declared the end of all sit-at-home directives,” the statement read. “Any violent incidents associated with such orders are not authorized by IPOB.”
IPOB also criticized portions of the Amnesty report that cited unnamed experts casting doubt on its claims of non-involvement. It warned that such claims risk conflating IPOB’s peaceful activities with those of unrelated groups or criminal elements operating in the region.
The group emphasized its dedication to peaceful advocacy through legal, media, and community engagement channels in pursuit of its self-determination agenda. It also noted that IPOB as an organization has never been convicted by any court for involvement in violent crimes.
The statement referenced the 2022 ruling of the Court of Appeal, which discharged its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, of previous charges, and raised concerns over his continued detention despite the judgment.
IPOB called on Amnesty International, international media, and human rights organizations to distinguish clearly between legitimate, peaceful advocacy and criminal acts perpetrated by unaffiliated actors.
“We urge all stakeholders, including global media, to ensure fair and accurate reporting that does not endanger our members or misrepresent our mission,” the group stated.
Reaffirming its commitment to non-violence, IPOB insisted that its activities remain rooted in international human rights norms and lawful expression.
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