The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called on the British Government to intervene diplomatically and press Nigeria to hear the pending appeal of its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, without further delay.
In a statement signed by spokesperson Emma Powerful on Monday, IPOB urged Britain to engage Nigerian authorities over what it described as unjust delays in Kanu’s legal proceedings.
The group argued that Britain’s stated policy of protecting its nationals abroad when international standards are not met should guide its response.
Key Concerns Raised by IPOB
Extraordinary Rendition (2021): Kanu’s transfer from Kenya to Nigeria, which IPOB says violated international law.
Court of Appeal Judgment (2022): The ruling that discharged him on certain counts.
Conviction (2025): His sentencing under terrorism legislation that IPOB claims had already been repealed.
Repealed Law Argument: IPOB cited Section 36(12) of Nigeria’s Constitution, stressing that no one can be convicted unless the offence is defined in written law.
Delayed Appeal Hearing: The group insists Britain should press Nigeria to list and hear the appeal promptly.
IPOB referenced Opinion No. 25/2022 of the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which called for Kanu’s immediate release.
It also questioned the inclusion of charges previously discharged by the Court of Appeal, saying the matter requires clarification.
The group emphasized that it was not asking Britain to dictate the outcome of the case but to encourage Nigeria to uphold due process and human rights.
IPOB maintained that diplomatic engagement would not undermine judicial independence but would ensure fairness.
Kanu, convicted on terrorism-related charges in November 2025 and sentenced to life imprisonment, has continued to challenge his conviction through his legal team.
IPOB insists Britain must demonstrate its commitment to protecting its citizens by ensuring his appeal is heard without further delay.
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