IPOB Denies Split in Its Ranks, Says Unity Not in Doubt

Emmanuel Ugwu in Umuahia

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) wednesday denied reports in some quarters that there was a split in its ranks, saying that the organisation remained united and strong in pursuing the cause of Biafra self-determination.

Speaking with THISDAY on phone wednesday, the Head of Media and Publicity of IPOB, Emma Powerful, said the organisation under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, had not changed and the loyalty of members was not in doubt.

“The only recognised IPOB is the one led by Nnamdi Kanu,” he said, adding that both locally and internationally there is no other group that goes by that name

Powerful blamed the insinuation of leadership crisis on Dr. Dozie Ikedife of Bilie human rights group, who had some time ago, claimed that he was the leader of IPOB even when he did not know how the organisation was formed by Kanu.

According to him, Ikedife and his group have seen that “a lot of progress has been made in the Biafra struggle” and therefore want to hijack the leadership of IPOB, adding that they have failed in their mischievous mission.

Ikedife had in March 2016 along with some people formed what they called customary government of Biafra, which they regarded as shadow government of Biafra without any recourse to IPOB leadership hence it was disowned by the members.

The IPOB media and publicity head noted that it was the detractors that were now giving the impression that IPOB is divided but the world knows better and nobody can claim what is not real.

“Nnamdi Kanu remains the undisputable leader and symbol of IPOB and no other organisation can change the situation,” he insisted.