Indigenous People of Biafra Worldwide - Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Indigenous People of Biafra
Abbreviation	IPOB
Leader	Mazi Nnamdi Kanu
Secretary-General	Chika Edoziem (Head of Directorate Of State), Emma Powerful (Media and Publicity Secretary)
Founded	April 2012
Party flag
Website
https://www.ipob.org

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is a self-determination movement based in old eastern region Nigeria, with the primary goal of re- establishing an independent state of Biafra, separate from the rest of Nigeria.

IPOB’s core belief centers on the perceived marginalization and oppression of the old eastern region people within the Nigerian state.^[1] They assert that this marginalized status necessitates their right to self-determination. It's worth noting that historical factors, including this sense of marginalization,^[2] contributed to the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970)^[3] during which the old eastern region sought to secede from Nigeria and establish an independent state of Biafra. The conflict ultimately ended with Biafra's defeat and its reintegration into Nigeria.^[4]

To further their cause, IPOB operates Radio Biafra,^[5] an online radio station that broadcasts messages related to Biafra's independence and the pursuit of self-determination. Nnamdi Kanu, a prominent figure within the movement, served as both the Director of Radio Biafra and Biafra TV.

However, it's important to note that the Nigerian government has designated IPOB as a terrorist organization.^[6] This proscription has posed significant legal challenges for the group, resulting in the arrest and detention of numerous members. Additionally, IPOB has been the subject of military operations conducted by the Nigerian government.^[7][8]

In response to perceived injustices, IPOB has resorted to legal action to challenge government policies and actions that they believe are detrimental to the Igbo people and their aspirations for self-determination.^[9] The movement's history and objectives are complex, and its activities have elicited varied reactions and opinions, both within Nigeria and on the international stage.^[10][11]

IPOB emerged in 2012 and is deeply committed to advocating for the right to self-determination, a fundamental principle enshrined in international law. The movement argues that the people of the old eastern region should have the opportunity to determine their political future through a democratic referendum.

IPOB operates with a semi-decentralized command and control structure, with leadership provided by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.^[12] At the highest level of decision-making within the separatist movement is the Directorate of State (DOS), comprising 15 members, and based in Germany. This body plays a central role in shaping the movement's direction and strategy.

Beneath the DOS are regional representatives, including those for Australia, Asia, Middle East, Europe, Africa, North & South America. These representatives work to coordinate activities and engagements within their respective regions.^[13]

Within Nigeria, particularly in the South-East and South-South regions, IPOB has established structures that include state coordinators, zonal coordinators, and unit coordinators at the local government and community levels, respectively. These coordinators play essential roles in managing and organizing the movement's activities at the state, zonal, and local levels.^[14]

Taking into account the danger of extinction facing us as a people, we have taken up the task of ensuring the conservation of the Cultural Heritage and National Values of the indigenous people of Biafra for the benefit of our Children and for the generation of Biafrans yet unborn.^[15]