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Insist IPOB not behind demonstration
From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
As volunteers of a peaceful march for the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, prepare for Monday’s demonstration, the group has commended the police utterance of not standing in their way.
Spokesman of the group Emma Powerful, who applauded the police for their respect of the protesters’ fundamental human rights, said the move is a departure from what is experienced by the police during protests of such magnitude.
He said: “The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) acknowledges the press release issued by the Nigeria Police Force on October 18, 2025, regarding the Federal High Court Order in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025, Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 Others. We note the Police’s reminder of the court’s directive restraining protests in designated areas of Abuja.
“IPOB commends the Nigeria Police Force’s measured and professional tone, a welcome departure from past inflammatory rhetoric. We encourage the Police to maintain this standard in language and action, ensuring impartial enforcement of the law.”
However, Powerful noted that IPOB expresses concern over allegations of security agents infiltrating peaceful demonstrations with provocateurs to incite chaos. “We urge the Police to guard against such practices, which would violate Nigerians’ rights and betray constitutional principles.”
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Meanwhile, the group has insisted that it has no hand in the protest but supports the initiative. “#FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign is a broad-based civic effort, not organised by IPOB. We support this democratic initiative and call for justice, freedom, and accountability.
“IPOB reaffirms its commitment to peaceful engagement and lawful advocacy. Our members have been directed to maintain calm and respect court restrictions. We call on the Police to protect peaceful demonstrators, not provoke or persecute them.”
He emphasised that the world is watching Nigeria’s adherence to democratic norms, adding that the prolonged detention of Kanu deepens public mistrust and erodes confidence in the justice system. “IPOB remains committed to non-violence and pursuit of justice.
“We pray for God’s protection over all participants in this struggle for truth and freedom. Let peace prevail, and let those who profit from chaos be exposed,” Powerful said.
