The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared a total political boycott of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the Federal Government of frustrating efforts to secure a hearing for the appeal of its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The pro-Biafra group said it would boycott APC rallies and reject the party’s insignia until the appeal against Kanu’s conviction is listed for hearing.
In a statement issued by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, IPOB declared: “No listing, no participation.”
The group accused the Federal Government of failing to facilitate the hearing of Kanu’s appeal against the November 20, 2025 judgment. It alleged that the case remained unlisted and that the government had yet to file its respondent’s brief.
IPOB argued that the appeal raises fundamental constitutional questions about Kanu’s conviction under a law the group claims had been repealed. It urged the relevant authorities to ensure that the appeal proceeds, insisting that the courts should determine the legal issues rather than allow procedural delays to continue.
Beyond the appeal, IPOB raised concerns over what it described as the disappearance of a court file relating to Kanu’s alleged 14-month detention without trial.
According to the group, the detention followed Kanu’s discharge by the Court of Appeal on October 13, 2022.
IPOB called for the restoration of the allegedly missing file, accusing the authorities of frustrating attempts to obtain judicial redress.
The group also criticised the Federal Government’s security operations in the South-East, alleging that military operations, arrests and detentions in the region contrasted with the government’s handling of armed groups in other parts of Nigeria.
These allegations formed part of the group’s broader criticism of the government’s approach to security and the continued detention of its leader.
Group Warns South-East APC Politicians
IPOB also criticised former Ebonyi State Governor and Minister of Works, David Umahi, over his role in the 2017 decision by South-East governors to proscribe the organisation.
The group alleged that the decision contributed to subsequent security crackdowns in the region.
It further warned South-East politicians aligned with the APC against what it described as sacrificing the interests of the Igbo people for political benefits.
Despite declaring a total boycott of the ruling party, IPOB directed its supporters to pursue the action peacefully. It warned against harassing or threatening citizens because of their political affiliations.
IPOB Demands Kanu’s Release
The group reiterated its demand for Kanu’s immediate and unconditional release, alongside the listing of his appeal and the restoration of the allegedly missing court file.
The boycott declaration adds a political dimension to IPOB’s continuing campaign over Kanu’s detention and legal proceedings.
As of the time of report, the APC and the Federal Government had not responded to the allegations contained in IPOB’s statement.
