IPOB distances self from embattled Simon Ekpa, says he’s ‘criminal gang leader’

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has distanced itself from Simon Ekpa.

Ekpa, who describes himself as the “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile and disciple of Nnamdi Kanu, was arrested in Finland on Thursday.

He is alleged to have used social media platforms to promote violent activities in the South-East, including attacks on civilians and authorities.

Reacting to the arrest of Ekpa by the Finnish authorities, IPOB spokesman, Emma Powerful, maintained that his organisation had nothing to do with Ekpa and his group, Autopilot.

He said, “We are not interested in his arrest. All we want is for the release of our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who has not committed any offence and who has been freed by the law courts. That is our concern.

“We have reiterated on several occasions that the Ekpa had no relationship with the IPOB from the formation to date and he had nothing in common with the Biafra struggle.

“For a long time, IPOB has maintained that there is nothing like autopilot in IPOB. More so, the criminal gang leader in Finland has no relationship with ESN from the formation of ESN to date or with IPOB. The authorities should stop linking IPOB with Ekpa and his group and IPOB is not interested in his arrest or whatever.

“All we want is for the Nigerian government to release our leader who has been detained for no known crime other than fighting for the liberation of his people.”