In a statement issued on Friday, October 10, 2025, and signed by its spokesperson, Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB accused Akpabio of deliberately diverting attention from the “real architects of terror” in Nigeria while using the group as a scapegoat.
‘Akpabio Knows the Truth But Lacks Courage’ — IPOB
According to the statement, Akpabio’s claim that both Christians and Muslims have been victims of terrorism is “superficially true” but fails to address the roots of the problem.
“Akpabio, like many politicians in Abuja, knows the truth but lacks the courage to say it,” IPOB said. “The real terrorists are those who have killed thousands across the North and Middle Belt under religious and ethnic cover while enjoying political and state protection.”
The group accused southern politicians of living in fear of northern power blocs, saying Akpabio’s comments reflect the “cowardice of a system where truth is punished and silence rewarded.”
‘IPOB Is Not and Has Never Been a Terrorist Organisation’
IPOB reiterated that it is a peaceful, non-violent movement formed to pursue the right to self-determination as guaranteed under international and regional human-rights laws.
“We have no record of bombing churches, killing worshippers, kidnapping schoolchildren, or invading communities — all hallmarks of real terrorism in Nigeria,” the statement said.
It added that the proscription of IPOB by the Federal Government was politically motivated, insisting that no court in the UK, US, or EU has ever classified IPOB as a terrorist organisation.
“International observers recognize IPOB as a non-violent movement seeking lawful redress against marginalization and extrajudicial killings,” the group maintained.
‘Real Terrorists Enjoy Immunity’
The group further accused Nigerian politicians of refusing to name and prosecute the real sponsors of terror in the North, claiming such individuals “operate openly and collect ransom under government protection.”
“It is shameful that those who massacre innocent farmers and seize communities are treated with leniency, while IPOB members are hunted for merely speaking truth to power,” the statement read.
IPOB also referenced the abduction and continued detention of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, describing it as “a gross violation of international law and court orders.”
‘Stop Using IPOB as a Scapegoat’
The statement challenged Akpabio and the National Assembly to “show courage” by addressing the real causes of insecurity rather than scapegoating IPOB.
“Until they name the real terrorists, any attempt to mention IPOB in the same breath with terrorism is a gross insult to truth and justice,” IPOB said, adding that “history will remember that IPOB stood for truth when politicians chose cowardice.”
The group reaffirmed its commitment to non-violence and the peaceful pursuit of self-determination for the people of the former Eastern Region.
“Senator Akpabio and his ilk should stop using IPOB as a distraction. Nigeria is bleeding because those in power lack the moral courage to name and prosecute the real terrorists,” the statement concluded.
