The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a stern statement rejecting its continued designation as a terrorist organisation by the Nigerian government, insisting that its 2017 proscription is unconstitutional, fraudulent, and legally invalid.

In a press statement dated July 15, 2025, and signed by its Directorate of Legal Affairs, IPOB maintained that it was never lawfully proscribed under Nigerian or international law, challenging the Federal Government, judiciary, and the press to provide any judicial ruling delivered after a full trial that brands the group a terrorist organisation.

“The proscription of IPOB was obtained through an ex parte court order in 2017 without notice, evidence, or fair hearing. This is a violation of Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution which guarantees a fair hearing,” the statement read.

IPOB Accuses FG of Legal Ambush

IPOB described the Federal High Court’s ex parte ruling of 2017 as a “legal ambush”, devoid of any opportunity for cross-examination, evidence presentation, or defense.

The group drew parallels with notorious terrorist groups like Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani herdsmen, noting that unlike IPOB, none of these groups have been legally proscribed nor have they approached the courts to challenge their status.

“IPOB remains the only organisation in Nigerian history labeled a terrorist group that has challenged its proscription up to the Supreme Court. Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani herdsmen have done no such thing,” IPOB stated.

Threat of Legal Action Against Media and Public Figures

IPOB also issued a legal threat to media houses and commentators, warning that any further references to IPOB as a terrorist organisation without a valid court conviction would attract lawsuits.

“Anyone who calls IPOB a terrorist group without judicial backing should prepare to face defamation suits. Several cases are already in court, and many more will follow,” the statement warned.

The group accused certain sections of the media of aiding state propaganda instead of reporting facts, and reminded journalists of the difference between a proscribed group and a terrorist organisation, urging them to maintain professional integrity.

IPOB’s Four-Point Demand

The IPOB Directorate of Legal Affairs outlined the following demands:

  1. The judiciary should vacate the ex parte order proscribing IPOB.

  2. Media houses must stop referring to IPOB as a terrorist organisation unless backed by a proper court judgment.

  3. The international community should monitor Nigeria’s alleged misuse of anti-terror laws for ethnic suppression.

  4. Nigerians should resist the erosion of constitutional rights under the guise of national security.

IPOB emphasized that their continued legal battle reflects their peaceful stance and commitment to the rule of law.

“We are law-abiding, resilient, and committed to self-determination through legal and democratic means. IPOB is not a terrorist organisation and history will vindicate us,” the group affirmed.

Background

The Nigerian government proscribed IPOB in September 2017 following an ex parte order by the Federal High Court in Abuja, citing alleged terrorist activities. However, IPOB has consistently denied any involvement in terrorism and has pursued multiple legal actions challenging the proscription.

As of the time of this report, the case is still awaiting final determination in Nigeria’s Supreme Court.