Presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu says the backing enjoyed by the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) on social media “does not reflect their public support”. According to the Presidency, IPOB has zero support from the public.
Shehu was reacting to a recent report by United Kingdom (UK)-based The Economist which denounced the Muhammadu Buhari administration.
Part of the Presidency’s statement read: “In the Southeast, IPOB – which the Economist rightly describes as “delusional” – the arrest and present trial of the terrorist leader of the group is the beginning of its demise. The President’s administration is redoubling efforts to have IPOB rightfully designated as a terrorist group by our allies outside of Nigeria – an act which will collapse their ability to transact gains from crime and extortion in foreign currencies. It is important to remind the Economist and the global media that this group’s aggression and widespread presence on social media does not reflect their public support, for which they have none: all elected governors, all elected politicians none: all elected governors, all elected politicians.”
IPOB is a controversial group in Nigeria canvassing for the sovereignty of Eastern Nigeria. It’s leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is currently in custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) following his rearrest in Kenya a few months ago. He is accused of inciting violence in some parts of Nigeria.
