[JUST IN]: IPOB Fires Back At Tinubu’s Aide Over Kanu Conviction, Cites Awolowo, Mandela (Full Details)

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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has strongly criticised comments credited to a presidential aide, Sunday Dare, over the conviction of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

In a press release dated February 17, 2026, and signed by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB described as “misleading” a reported comparison between Kanu’s conviction and the activism of Yoruba agitator Sunday Igboho.

The group insisted that Kanu’s case cannot be equated with that of Igboho, arguing that their struggles and circumstances differ significantly. IPOB maintained that its leader should be viewed within the context of global freedom movements rather than criminal proceedings.

IPOB Cites Historical Figures

In defending its position, IPOB referenced several prominent historical figures who were convicted or imprisoned during their struggles, including Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, and Nigeria’s former President Nnamdi Azikiwe.

The group also cited the late Yoruba leader, Obafemi Awolowo, noting that he was convicted in 1963 for treasonable felony but later regarded as a hero in the South-West.

According to IPOB, these examples demonstrate that individuals once convicted under prevailing political systems were later celebrated as icons.

Allegations Of Ethnic Bias

IPOB further alleged that Kanu’s conviction was influenced by ethnic considerations, claiming that key officials involved in the case were of Yoruba extraction and acted under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The group described the judicial process as unfair and politically motivated, reiterating its long-standing position that its leader is being persecuted for advocating the restoration of Biafra.

ESN And Security Claims

IPOB also defended the establishment of its security arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), stating that it was formed to protect communities in the South-East from insecurity. The group claimed that its interventions helped prevent further violence in the region.

Reaffirmation Of Biafra Agitation

The separatist movement concluded the statement by reaffirming its commitment to the agitation for Biafra’s restoration, insisting that continued detention and prosecution of its leader would not deter its members.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no fresh official response from the presidency regarding IPOB’s latest claims.