The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has reaffirmed its recognition of Nnamdi Kanu as the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), dismissing reports suggesting that he has been suspended from the position.
Following the restructuring, Edoziem reportedly announced Kanu’s suspension as IPOB leader, a move that generated widespread reactions and uncertainty among supporters both in Igboland and across the diaspora.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by Deputy President General Okechukwu Isiguzoro and Assistant Deputy Secretary General Prof. Chibuikeya Achoakawa, Ohanaeze said it deemed it necessary to address the concerns and misinformation surrounding the matter.
According to the organization, the purported suspension lacks legitimacy and is not recognized within its institutional framework.
“After careful review and consultation within its constitutional mandate as an impartial cultural institution, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide states unequivocally that the alleged suspension of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is neither recognized nor validated and carries no institutional or communal legitimacy,” the statement said.
Ohanaeze further described the claims by Edoziem and other aggrieved members as unofficial, insisting that they do not alter Kanu’s standing or the organization’s ongoing engagements regarding IPOB-related matters.
The group maintained that Kanu remains a prominent and widely acknowledged figure within the pro-Biafra movement.
Expressing concern over the dispute, Ohanaeze warned that internal conflicts within IPOB could threaten the fragile peace and stability gradually returning to the South-East.
The organization noted that the region has experienced significant improvements over the past eleven months, including increased agricultural activities, the revival of cultural festivals and traditional events, renewed commercial engagements, and growing investor confidence.
“These gains remain delicate and must not be undermined by avoidable internal disputes or inflammatory narratives,” the statement added.
Ohanaeze urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue as the most effective means of resolving disagreements. It emphasized that internal disputes should not be allowed to escalate into broader security concerns or public unrest.
The organization also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering unity among Igbo stakeholders and supporting peaceful initiatives aimed at resolving internal differences. It reiterated its support for efforts geared toward securing the release and reintegration of detained pro-Biafra advocates, including Nnamdi Kanu.
Ohanaeze concluded by warning against actions or statements capable of reigniting insecurity, destabilizing communities, or reversing the progress made toward peace and development in the South-East.
