The newly appointed Head of the Fourth Administration of the Directorate of State of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Chris Nwaọgụ, has reaffirmed that the group’s detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, remains the only person empowered to appoint, suspend or remove IPOB principal officers.
Speaking in an address to members and supporters on Monday, Nwaọgụ said Kanu exercised his constitutional powers by reconstituting the Directorate of State from custody, describing the move as the beginning of efforts to end internal divisions and strengthen the separatist movement.
He maintained that IPOB’s Code of Conduct vests the authority to appoint, dissolve and dismiss principal officers exclusively in Kanu, dismissing claims that the detained leader lacked the power to make leadership appointments while in custody.
Nwaọgụ warned individuals or groups claiming to represent IPOB without authorisation to desist, saying the organisation’s governing rules had been communicated to relevant authorities in countries where it operates.
He also outlined the priorities of the new administration, including the restoration of Radio Biafra, improved welfare for members of the Eastern Security Network, greater financial accountability and enhanced legal support for IPOB members facing detention.
According to him, the group’s legal team has commenced a review of cases involving detained members to provide legal representation and pursue lawful avenues for their release.
Nwaọgụ further pledged to provide regular updates on Kanu’s legal proceedings, saying supporters deserved accurate information rather than speculation.
He urged IPOB members in Nigeria and the diaspora to remain united, peaceful and disciplined, expressing optimism that ongoing diplomatic engagements would advance the group’s objectives.
