The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a strongly worded response to the Federal Government’s recently released terrorism sponsors list, dismissing it as a “fabricated narrative” aimed at misleading both Nigerians and the international community.
In a comprehensive statement dated April 13, 2026, the group’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, said the publication is a calculated attempt to redefine the group’s identity and weaken its growing influence, particularly among its supporters at home and abroad.
IPOB, under the leadership of Nnamdi Kanu, argued that the list raises critical concerns about transparency, due process, and the evidentiary standards used in labeling individuals and organisations as terrorism sponsors.
The group maintained that the move is not rooted in genuine security concerns but rather reflects what it described as a broader effort to suppress agitation and control the narrative surrounding self-determination movements in Nigeria.
According to the statement, IPOB believes the list is part of a strategic campaign to discredit its activities on the global stage, especially in countries where it claims to operate within the confines of the law.
The organisation further alleged that the development diverts attention from deeper national issues, including ongoing security challenges and tensions in parts of the country, particularly in the South-East.
IPOB also revisited concerns over past encounters between civilians and security agencies, suggesting that such incidents raise important questions about accountability and the definition of terrorism within the Nigerian context.
On the issue of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, the group reiterated its stance that his continued detention remains a focal point of its struggle, describing it as symbolic of what it views as broader concerns about justice and human rights.
The group insisted that it remains a peaceful and people-driven movement, firmly rejecting any attempt to associate it with acts of violence or terrorism. It added that its objectives are anchored on the principle of self-determination, which it described as a fundamental right under international law.
IPOB warned that mislabeling individuals and organisations without verifiable proof could have significant consequences, including reputational damage and increased political tension, both within Nigeria and beyond.
Despite the controversy generated by the terrorism list, the group declared that it remains undeterred, emphasizing that its agitation for justice, dignity, and self-determination will continue.
It also called on the international community to critically evaluate the situation and avoid drawing conclusions based solely on what it described as “one-sided narratives.”
IPOB concluded by stressing that propaganda and labeling would not alter its course, reiterating that its demands remain unchanged and non-negotiable.
As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government has yet to respond officially to the claims made by IPOB.
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