The factional Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE), with leadership across Europe and Africa, has issued a strong warning to Ngozi Orabueze, the Chief of Staff of the group and the leader of its U.S. chapter.
The faction has called for an immediate halt to further sit-at-home orders and acts of violence targeting civilians and security agents in South-East Nigeria.
This call follows a controversial statement by Orabueze on her social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), where she praised the Biafra Defence Forces for their actions in the South-East. “We are very proud of our Biafra Defence Forces for their daily efforts to eliminate terrorists wearing Nigerian army and police uniforms in our land,” she wrote. Her comments could cause ongoing violence in the region, where both civilians and security personnel have been killed.
Internal Discontent Within BRGIE
In a recent Zoom meeting, key members of the BRGIE voiced their concerns over the actions of the U.S. chapter. They criticized efforts to raise funds for purchasing weapons, describing the situation as dangerously escalating the already critical state of affairs. A source within the group, speaking to NN News Media, expressed frustration at what they perceive as the ignorance of some BRGIE leaders about the gravity of the ongoing crisis.
“Do they truly understand the situation we’re in? This is not a child’s play,” the source remarked, referring to the accusations against Simon Ekpa and the broader implications of the group’s activities.
Simon Ekpa’s Role and Controversy
Simon Ekpa, a prominent advocate for the sit-at-home protests, remains a polarizing figure in the Biafran independence movement. He has consistently argued that these protests demonstrate solidarity with the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. Ekpa’s social media platforms frequently feature updates on these protests, often accompanied by reports of violence and enforcement measures.
The Nigerian government has reportedly sought Ekpa’s extradition, despite his Finnish citizenship, in connection with his activities. Critics argue that Ekpa’s leadership has exacerbated tensions in the South-East, with the sit-at-home orders contributing to significant economic and social disruption.
Call for Peace and Dialogue
The BRGIE’s factional leadership emphasized the need for a strategic and peaceful approach to address the Biafran struggle. They condemned the use of violence and the promotion of divisive tactics, urging all stakeholders to focus on constructive dialogue and non-violent means to achieve their goals.
The group’s warning to Orabueze highlights the deepening rift within the BRGIE and underscores the urgent need for a unified and responsible leadership to navigate the complexities of the Biafran independence movement. As the situation in South-East Nigeria remains volatile, calls for peace and restraint have never been more critical.
