PRESS STATEMENT BY COMRADE EMMA POWERFUL,SPOKESPERSON AND MEDIA & PUBLICITY SECRETARY FOR THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLE OF BIAFRA (IPOB)

Commendation for Police Professionalism

IPOB commends the measured and professional tone of the Nigeria Police Force’s statement — a welcome departure from the inflammatory and heavy-handed rhetoric that once characterized official responses to civic dissent.

This approach aligns with the expectations of a modern, democratic police service — not a police force. We encourage the Police to maintain this standard not only in language but also in action, as the integrity of their institution depends on the impartial enforcement of the law.

Concerns Over Infiltration of Peaceful Protests

However, IPOB expresses concern over recurring allegations that certain elements within Nigeria’s security architecture have, in the past, infiltrated peaceful demonstrations with hired provocateurs to incite chaos and tarnish the image of legitimate movements.

We urge the Nigeria Police Force to guard against such practices, as their repetition would not only violate citizens’ rights but also undermine public confidence and betray constitutional principles the Police are sworn to protect.

Clarification on the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Campaign

For the avoidance of doubt, the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign and any associated peaceful demonstrations are not organized by IPOB. The campaign is a broad-based civic initiative championed by human rights activists and pro-democracy advocates, including Omoyele Sowore and his team, who have publicly affirmed their commitment to peaceful and lawful advocacy for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

While IPOB is not the organizer, the movement fully supports the campaign’s democratic objectives and shares in its call for justice, freedom, and accountability.

Commitment to Peaceful Engagement

The call for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release transcends ethnicity, religion, and political affiliation. It represents a universal demand for justice and the rule of law — values upheld by all freedom-loving Nigerians.

IPOB reaffirms that it remains a disciplined and peace-loving organization committed to non-violence and lawful advocacy. Members have been directed to remain calm, respect court restrictions, and avoid any form of confrontation or disorder.

We call on the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that peaceful demonstrators are protected — not persecuted or provoked. The world is watching, and the conduct of Nigeria’s security agencies will serve as a litmus test of the nation’s democratic credibility.

A Call for Justice and Peace

The continued unlawful detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu deepens public mistrust and erodes confidence in Nigeria’s justice system. IPOB remains unwavering in its commitment to lawful struggle, truth, and freedom.

We pray for God’s protection over all who participate in this noble pursuit of justice. Let peace prevail, and let those who profit from chaos and oppression be exposed by the collective unity of a people yearning for freedom and fairness.