IPOB Gives FG 14 Days to Ensure Nnamdi Kanu’s Appeal Is Heard

The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has given the Federal Government 14 days to ensure that the appeal against the conviction of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is listed and heard.

The group issued the ultimatum on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, citing what it described as continued delays in the legal process surrounding Kanu’s case.

IPOB questioned the continued detention of Kanu and the legal basis of his conviction, urging the Federal Government to address what it described as outstanding legal issues in the case.

The group warned that failure to have Kanu’s appeal listed and heard within the 14-day period would lead to a total boycott of forthcoming elections across Biafraland and beyond.

IPOB also referred to a separate legal challenge before the Supreme Court concerning the continuation of Kanu’s trial after some of the charges against him had previously been quashed.

The organisation argued that the Federal Government should either defend Kanu’s conviction and the jurisdiction of the resumed trial before the courts or release him.

The group further demanded the immediate and unconditional release of its leader.

IPOB explains election boycott threat

IPOB said its proposed election boycott should not be interpreted simply as an action designed to favour President Bola Tinubu or his administration.

The group recalled that it did not call for an election boycott during the 2023 general elections, claiming that its supporters participated in the polls but subsequently disputed the results through legal challenges.

According to IPOB, a collective decision by its supporters to stay away from future elections would represent a political statement by people who have lost confidence in the electoral process.

The organisation therefore urged those opposed to the proposed boycott to concentrate on ensuring that Kanu’s appeal is heard.

IPOB maintained that the Federal Government has a responsibility to allow the judicial process to proceed without further delay, while reiterating its position that Kanu should be released.

The latest ultimatum adds another layer to the long-running legal and political controversy surrounding Kanu, whose case has remained a major issue in the South-East.