Kanu removes Chika Edoziem, 9 others From IPOB leadership

Nnamdi Kanu, who is a jailed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has made an announcement about the indefinite expulsion of 10 key members of the third Directorate of State of the dissolved group, citing their abandonment of him when he was in custody and attempting to seize control of the separatist organization for selfish motives.

According to a statement, reportedly made by Kanu, through his brother Kanunta Kanu via X on Sunday, the IPOB leader stated that the 10 individuals no longer have any right to speak or represent the organization.

As reported, Kanu made the decision under his jurisdiction as the “Supreme Leader,” following the IPOB Code of Conduct, allowing him to appoint, suspend, dissolve and expel the officers of the organization.

Among the individuals expelled are Chika Edoziem, Tony Nzurumike, Austin Agbanyim, Chukwudi Oforma, Isaiah Ubah, Colins Chinedu, Chinasa Nworu, Fidelis Ejiogu, Chidinma Nworu (Juliet Edward Filatro), and Keke Uda.

Kanu said the disciplinary action followed alleged violations of the group’s internal code of conduct, as well as conduct he described as betrayal of the movement’s leadership and structure.

He recalled that the affected individuals were part of the third Directorate of State he constituted in March 2017 while detained at Kuje Prison, noting that although the administration was initially set for six months, it continued until its eventual dissolution.

According to him, the expelled members failed to provide adequate legal, welfare and medical support during his detention and also allegedly obstructed fundraising efforts by support groups seeking to aid his treatment while in DSS custody.

Kanu further accused them of undermining his legal defence teams, collaborating with unnamed political actors in the South-East, and spreading false narratives regarding his court cases and political negotiations.

He also alleged that they altered internal IPOB structures, replaced appointed officers with loyalists, and promoted divisive narratives aimed at weakening the movement.

Kanu warned that anyone associating with the expelled members would be considered as acting against IPOB and the broader Biafra agitation.

He directed supporters to recognise the fourth Directorate of State led by Chris Nwaọgụ, insisting that the movement remains under his leadership despite his continued detention.