IPOB Coordinator Rebuts Uwazuruike, Defends Nnamdi Kanu, ESN
Group dismisses ex-MASSOB leader's remarks as propaganda, insists Kanu remains committed to Biafra self-determination
By Rimawaglobalnews Staff
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has rejected recent comments by former Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) leader, Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, describing his remarks against IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu as "false, misleading and politically motivated."
In a statement signed by Mazi Alex Chinonso Omenka, IPOB's Emekuku Unit 1 Coordinator, Owerri Zone, the group accused Uwazuruike of attempting to regain public attention by making allegations against Kanu.
The statement was issued in response to Uwazuruike's reported appeal to Ohanaeze Ndigbo to visit Kanu in detention and caution him against allegedly recruiting Igbo youths for violence.
According to IPOB, Kanu has not encouraged violence but has consistently advocated self-determination through a referendum. The group maintained that the Eastern Security Network (ESN) was established as a self-defence outfit to protect communities from attacks by armed criminals, arguing that it emerged because of what it described as the failure of security agencies to adequately protect lives and property in the South-East.
The statement further dismissed claims linking Kanu to violent activities, insisting that public expressions by some youths should not be interpreted as evidence that the detained IPOB leader was directing violence from custody.
IPOB also rejected comparisons between its members and repentant Boko Haram fighters, describing such comparisons as "offensive and misleading."
The group reaffirmed its support for Kanu, describing him as unwavering in his pursuit of Biafra's self-determination despite his continued detention. It accused Uwazuruike of abandoning the Biafra cause and alleged that his recent comments were intended to undermine the movement.
The statement concluded by urging supporters to remain committed to what it described as the struggle for self-determination, while expressing confidence that the aspirations of the movement would not be derailed.
The statement was signed by Mazi Alex Chinonso Omenka, Coordinator, Emekuku Unit 1, Owerri Zone, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
