The Directorate of State of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced the indefinite suspension of the office of the Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra and the position of Director of Radio Biafra, positions previously held by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Directorate, following a full house meeting on 17th June 2026, said the decision forms part of ongoing efforts to reposition and strengthen the Biafran self-determination movement, making it more responsive to its core objectives.

The statement emphasised that IPOB is a collective self-determination movement formed and nurtured by Biafrans in the Diaspora, rather than by any single individual. It stressed that no individual has the authority to dissolve the Directorate of State, which remains the apex leadership organ of the movement. Any claim of dissolution of the Directorate was described as “ab initio null and void” and of no effect.

The Directorate cited security concerns as a major factor in the decision. It referenced intelligence reports regarding meetings between Nigerian security agencies (DSS and NIA) and Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in Sokoto prison, noting that all his communications and activities are closely monitored. The statement expressed worry that unguarded communications from prison have led to arrests and deaths of IPOB members in Biafraland.

It further highlighted concerns over alleged plans by certain individuals to establish a new militia aimed at instigating violence in the region, and moves perceived as attempting to dissolve the movement through the undermining of its apex leadership structure.

In light of these developments, the Directorate resolved to suspend the offices to:

• Safeguard IPOB operations and protect members, particularly those in Biafraland.
• Prevent security breaches and potential emergencies.
• Stop any criminal activities or violence being carried out under the authority of the suspended leadership position.
• Reaffirm IPOB’s commitment to a peaceful and non-violent pursuit of self-determination.

The statement added that any crimes or actions taken in the name of the now-suspended office of the Leader will not be attributed to IPOB, but solely to the individuals involved. The movement will only be accountable for actions authorised by the Directorate of State.

The announcement was signed by Mazi Chikadibia Edoziem, Head of the Directorate of State of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

This development marks a significant internal restructuring within the pro-Biafra movement amid ongoing tensions with Nigerian authorities.