29/12/2024
IPOB, A Non-Violent Self Determination Movement, Amidst Government Sponsored Violence
In the turbulent landscape of agitation and calls for self-determination, the Indigenous People Of Biafra(IPOB) led by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu stands out for its commitment to a peaceful approach. IPOB movement has navigated challenges and untold controversies, yet remaining steadfastly dedicated to the principles of non-violent agitation. The journey of IPOB is a testament to the power of peaceful advocacy in the pursuit of justice and freedom. IPOB have emerged as the prominent voice advocating for the peace of the Biafran people. The movement have garnered attention for her commitment to a peaceful approach in achieving her goals, despite numerous challenges and government projected controversies.
Founded in 2012 by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, a charismatic leader with a deep understanding of Nigerian politics, IPOB started to vigorously advocate peacefully for the self-determination right of Biafrans, demanding a United Nations supervised referendum. Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB leader understood the complexities of the Nigerian government's operations and the importance of playing his cards wisely. So, from the onset, Kanu emphatically preaches a peaceful approach, firmly disavowing any association with violent activities.
At its core, IPOB envisions a Biafran nation where the rights and aspirations of the people are respected and protected without compulsion. This includes the desire for self-determination, freedom from marginalization, and the opportunity to build a prosperous and just society. Quite very important, the Mazi Nnamdi Kanu led IPOB have consistently reiterated their commitment to achieving these goals through peaceful measures.
But, one of the greatest challenges faced by IPOB has been the association with violence. Over the years, there have been allegations of violence and militant activities by groups claiming affiliation with Biafra. However, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and the leadership of IPOB have been steadfast true in distancing themselves from any form of violence. They have repeatedly asserted that IPOB is a peaceful movement and not an armed struggle group.
A noteworthy incident in IPOB's journey was the emergence of a villain group known as "Autopilot", with its leader in Finland. This group claimed to represent IPOB, but engaged in activities that deviates from the movement's peaceful stance. After numerous IPOB press statement dissociating self and Nnamdi Kanu from every activity of this villain group, it became clear to observers, even to a six-year-old, that autopilot group doesn’t speak for IPOB and Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Very commendably, IPOB understands the tactics employed by the Nigerian government and its Department of State Services(DSS) in steadily associating IPOB with violent and violent activities of Autopilot, have continually through press statement to distance IPOB and it's activities from Ekpa Autopilot violent group and every other violent group.
The Nigeria government have a history of clamping down on peaceful protesters and dissenting voices. And Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB have been victims of this government's lawlessness, yet consistently emphasizing non-violence and peaceful exercises as the way forward, amidst pains and loss of innumerable number of her members to the bullets of the trigger happy Nigerian security.
IPOB's commitment to a peaceful approach is also exemplified by her engagement in peaceful protests round the world and civil disobedience campaigns in Biafraland. Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB Supreme leader being a vocal advocate for the use of peaceful means to achieve the Biafran cause, emphasises that violence only begets more violence and hinders progress. This approach has garnered support from various quarters, both within and internationally.
IPOB's peaceful approach has not gone unnoticed on the international stage.
Various human rights organizations and advocates have voiced their concerns over the Nigeria government treatment on IPOB members and the need for a peaceful resolution to the Biafran question. These international attentions have added pressure on the Nigerian government to engage in constructive dialogue.
However, despite her commitment to peaceful means, IPOB have faced significant challenges and setbacks along the way. The Nigerian government have continued to clamp down on the movement, leading to arrests and detentions, including that of IPOB Supreme Leader himself. These actions have tested the resolve of IPOB and his supporters.
Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's leadership has been central to IPOB's journey. His charisma, vision, and unwavering commitment to a peaceful approach have inspired many to join the cause. Even in the face of adversity, Kanu has continued to be a voice and determined advocate for Biafran independence without violence, earning him respect among his followers and admirers.
Therefore, it is absolutely unthoughtful and insensitive for any reasonable fellow to keep associating IPOB to any form of militancy, criminality or violence. Because, amidst several provocations, the movement have remained consistently disciplined and committed to peaceful conducts.
Article Written by Family Writers Press International.
