The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) raises serious concerns about the United Kingdom’s approach to its citizens detained abroad. This accusation comes amid recent events involving two British dual nationals.
Background on the Cases
Alaa Abd el-Fattah, a British-Egyptian activist, gained freedom after years in Egyptian prison. Authorities pardoned him in September 2025, and he arrived in the UK on December 26, 2025. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised this release as a top priority.
In addition, Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB’s leader and a British-Nigerian citizen, remains jailed in Nigeria. Courts sentenced him to life imprisonment on November 20, 2025, for terrorism charges. Officials abducted him from Kenya in June 2021 and held him despite multiple release orders.
IPOB’s Major Charges
IPOB claims that UK government policies in these instances are riddled with double standards. IPOB draws attention to the fact that while Britain was actively involved in securing Abd el-Fattah, it hardly participated in securing Kanu. According to IPOB, while Abd el-Fatt.
Moreover IPOB suggests faith plays a role, noting Abd el-Fattah is Muslim while Kanu follows Judeo-Christian beliefs.
Emma Powerful, IPOB’s spokesperson, states that the UK would act differently if Kanu were Muslim. He adds that Britain celebrates one activist’s freedom but ignores another’s plight. Consequently this raises questions about fair protection for all citizens.
Historical Context
IPOB links the issue to Britain’s colonial past in Nigeria. The group recalls events like the Aba Women’s Uprising in 1929 and the Biafran War. In addition, they argue this history shows ongoing bias against Igbo people and Biafran self-determination.
Furthermore IPOB highlights ignored rulings. The UN declared Kanu’s detention arbitrary in 2022. Nigerian courts also ordered his release, but authorities refused to comply.
Global Appeals for Action
IPOB demands that the UK government offers strong support to Kanu. The organization urges the enforcement of compliance by organizations such as the UN, EU, and the US. Also the group demands that religious and human rights organizations support the cause of justice.
Despite these accusations, however the UK has not taken direct action against these claims. Starmer’s response to Abd el-Fattah’s return is still fueling the debate.
Next Steps
In this regard, the culture of policy consistency is highlighted. IPOB believes the international community will prompt the release of Kanu. In the end, equality promotes trust in international affairs.
