The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has urged the Federal Government to desist from making what it termed “misleading claims” regarding its proscription status.

 

In a statement released by the group’s Directorate of Legal Affairs and made available through its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB asserted that it has not been lawfully declared a terrorist organization under either Nigerian or international law.

 

The group maintained that the 2017 proscription order was obtained through an ex-parte application — a one-sided court process — and does not amount to a legal conviction.

 

“The ex-parte order was issued without prior notice to IPOB, without presentation of evidence, and without an opportunity for defense. This falls short of the requirements of Section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to a fair hearing,” the statement read.

 

IPOB emphasized that branding it as a terrorist organization in the absence of a valid post-trial ruling could warrant legal action for defamation and violation of constitutional rights.

 

It further stated that it is still challenging the ex-parte order at various legal levels, including the Supreme Court, stressing that no competent court has made a final ruling labeling it a terrorist group.

 

Reiterating its stance, IPOB affirmed its commitment to peaceful advocacy and the pursuit of legal remedies to defend its name and objectives.

 

As IPOB continues its legal battle to clear its name, the debate over its status remains a significant issue in Nigeria’s socio-political discourse. The group insists that only a fair and conclusive judicial process can determine its legal standing.