The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has condemned comments allegedly suggesting the killing of its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, warning that such an action would worsen tensions in the South-East rather than restore peace.

In a statement issued on July 20 and signed by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the group reacted to remarks attributed to businessman Chigozie Nnabugwu during a News Central Television programme, where he reportedly argued that Kanu’s death could help return normalcy to the region.

Also read: Businessman urges FG to kill Nnamdi Kanu, says move will restore peace in South-East

IPOB described the comments as a call for extrajudicial action and accused Nnabugwu of promoting views against the separatist movement.

The group argued that removing Kanu would not end the Biafra agitation but could instead increase the determination of his supporters.

“You cannot kill an idea by threatening to kill its messenger,” IPOB stated.

The organisation added that any attempt to harm Kanu would deepen the commitment of those supporting its self-determination campaign.

IPOB also accused the Federal Government of attempting to divert attention from what it described as recent international developments involving the group, including claims that its representatives appeared before the Israeli parliament.

The group further alleged that Kanu was being held in solitary confinement at the Sokoto Custodial Centre and claimed he had limited access to his lawyers and family. The claims have not been independently verified.

IPOB also blamed worsening insecurity in parts of the South-East on what it described as politically sponsored armed groups following Kanu’s return to Nigeria from Kenya in June 2021.

The group did not provide independent evidence to support the allegation.

IPOB said it was considering legal action against News Central, Nnabugwu and other public commentators, including Reno Omokri, Bashir Ahmad and Nneka Chimezie, over statements it considered damaging to Kanu’s reputation.

The group urged its supporters around the world to remain committed to its demand for a referendum, describing its campaign for Biafran self-determination as a continuing cause.

Kanu is currently serving a life sentence at the Sokoto Custodial Centre after Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court convicted him in November 2025 on seven terrorism-related charges.

Also read: Businessman urges FG to kill Nnamdi Kanu, says move will restore peace in South-East

His case has continued to attract public debate, with political figures, rights groups and community leaders offering differing views on his detention and the wider security situation in the South-East.