The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a scathing response to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, over his recent claims that negotiations are ongoing for the release of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In a strongly worded press statement released on Monday, July 8, 2025, and signed by IPOB’s spokesperson, Comrade Emma Powerful, the group dismissed Umahi’s remarks as “reckless, laughable, and a gross insult” to the Biafran struggle.
“There is no negotiation whatsoever that involves Mazi Nnamdi Kanu accepting any so-called conditions from the Nigerian government. None. Absolutely none,” the statement read.
Kanu not a political mercenary — IPOB
IPOB clarified that its leader is not seeking political appointments or rehabilitation, but is committed solely to the cause of Biafra’s independence. The group emphasized that the only acceptable discussion is one that involves a United Nations-supervised referendum for the people of the South-East to determine their future.
“Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not a political mercenary. He is a freedom fighter whose only ‘condition’ is a UN-supervised referendum,” IPOB stated.
Kanu’s sacrifice “unmatched,” IPOB insists
Highlighting what it called the personal sacrifices of its leader, IPOB reminded Nigerians that Kanu has spent nearly seven years in detention, including five years in solitary confinement, without caving under pressure.
“He has endured torture, lost his parents, faced secret trials, and been held in solitary confinement. And yet he remains unbroken,” the statement noted.
The group added that any suggestion Kanu would now accept a deal to secure his release under "conditions" is a betrayal of the struggle and the memory of those who have died for the cause.
Simon Ekpa called out in court reference
IPOB also took a swipe at Simon Ekpa, saying his recent admission in a Finnish court that he is no longer the so-called “Prime Minister” of a Biafran government in exile shows who is truly committed to the movement.
“Simon Ekpa admitted in court that he is just a content creator. That speaks volumes,” IPOB said.
"Freedom is non-negotiable" – IPOB warns Umahi
The group warned Minister Umahi to stop spreading what it described as “false hopes and media propaganda.” It reiterated that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom must come through justice and not under any backdoor arrangement.
“Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom is non-negotiable. The only way forward is a UN
