Rita Odafe
The Indigenous People of Biafra are advocating for a referendum in response to the “IgboMustGo” campaign in the Southwest targeting Igbos.
The group states that the people of Southeast are prepared to separate from Nigeria.
IPOB criticized those behind the “IgboMustGo” movement in the Southwest and highlighted suspicions of high-profile sponsorship within the Lagos State and Federal Governments.
The IPOB Director of Media and Publicity, Emma Powerful, emphasized in a statement that the Igbo community is determined to exit peacefully through a democratic process.
The group expressed readiness to leave Nigeria to maintain amicable relations if permitted to do so democratically; however, they warned against forced expulsion as it could lead to lasting hostility.
IPOB urged for a referendum to decide on Biafra’s independence and suggested that the Yoruba leadership should support this initiative rather than resorting to threats and violence against the Igbo community.
They also called attention to the vulnerability of Ndigbo in Nigeria and urged those in the Northern and Western regions to return home swiftly.
The statement highlighted the historical context of the Biafran war and stressed the determination of the present generation to protect themselves from any threats.
Following the developments, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu denounced the campaign insisting that Igbo people are welcome in Lagos and the Southwest region.
Sanwo-Olu’s message was shared through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile.
