May 5, 2026 — SUNTV Global
A fresh political controversy has erupted as the (IPOB) strongly criticised Senate President , accusing him of issuing veiled threats under the guise of a peace message to Igbo youths.
In a statement released by its spokesperson, , the group described Akpabio’s recent remarks in as “state propaganda, political blackmail, and a failed attempt to coerce Ndigbo into submission.”
Akpabio had earlier urged Igbo youths to abandon any form of armed struggle, warning that “state power will always overwhelm you.” He also suggested the creation of an additional state in the South-East as part of efforts to address regional concerns.
However, IPOB rejected the remarks outright, insisting they were not conciliatory but threatening in tone.
“This was not a peace message. It was a threat. It was not dialogue. It was political blackmail wrapped in rhetoric,” the group said.
The organisation maintained that it is not engaged in armed conflict, stressing that its campaign is focused solely on a referendum for self-determination. It argued that such a referendum represents a legitimate and democratic means of expressing the will of the people.
IPOB also accused the Nigerian government of deliberately mischaracterising its activities to justify crackdowns on its members and supporters.
Led by detained figure , the group reiterated that its demand for self-determination remains non-negotiable and rooted in legal frameworks, including provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights instruments.
The group further dismissed the proposal for an additional South-East state, describing it as inadequate and irrelevant to its core demand.
“You do not resolve a sovereignty question with political patronage,” the statement added.
IPOB also revisited the controversial arrest and extradition of Kanu, alleging violations of international law and describing his ongoing trial as politically motivated.
The latest exchange underscores deepening tensions between separatist voices and federal authorities, raising fresh concerns about political stability and dialogue in Nigeria’s South-East region.
— SUNTV Global Reporting
