The Indigenous People of Biafra released a press statement on February 27, 2026. Comrade Emma Powerful signed the document as the group’s Media and Publicity Secretary. He raised concerns over religious freedom in Nigeria.
The group stressed that Sharia law enforcement in parts of the country threatened the safety and basic rights of non-Muslim communities.
IPOB respected the right of Muslims to practice their faith. However the statement argued that extending Sharia beyond Muslim communities amounted to persecution. This denied fundamental freedoms to Christians, Jews, and other religious groups in the North.
Examples of Oppression Cited
Powerful provided details in the statement. He cited widespread religiously motivated attacks against Christians and non-Muslims in states such as Sokoto, Borno, and Plateau. “Sharia, when enforced beyond its proper community, becomes a weapon of oppression, not a system of justice,” the statement read.
Additionally, the group highlighted that such enforcement violated the rights of non-Muslims. They pointed to instances where religious laws overstepped personal matters like marriage and inheritance.
Call for Sovereign Biafra
Furthermore, IPOB reiterated its demand for an independent Biafra nation state. The statement explained that this would safeguard life, religion, and human dignity for affected communities.
Mazi Nnamdi Kanu led the agitation as IPOB’s founder. In related contexts, Powerful described a restored Biafra as a safe anchor for Christians and others. The group emphasized a peaceful referendum as the path forward.
Response from Authorities
Nigerian officials did not immediately respond to the statement. Meanwhile IPOB urged international attention to these issues. The call aligned with ongoing debates on ethnic and religious tensions in the country.
