The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has firmly distanced itself from Simon Ekpa, a pro-Biafra agitator based in Finland, and his “Autopilot” faction. IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful stated that Ekpa has no ties to the organization or its operational strategies, including its security wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). IPOB has consistently disavowed Ekpa, emphasizing that his activities do not align with the group’s peaceful advocacy for the self-determination of the Igbo people under the leadership of Nnamdi Kanu .
Emma Powerful highlighted that IPOB has repeatedly urged the public and authorities to stop associating the group with Ekpa. According to IPOB, Ekpa’s actions and rhetoric, including enforcing violent sit-at-home orders, have led to widespread violence, loss of lives, and the destruction of property in Nigeria’s South-East region. These actions, IPOB claims, are entirely counter to the principles the group upholds. They argue that Ekpa’s faction operates independently and accuse him of attempting to undermine the institutions established by Kanu .
The controversy surrounding Ekpa deepened after his recent arrest in Finland for terrorism-related charges and incitement in Nigeria. While IPOB has stated it has no interest in his arrest, the group has supported calls for his extradition to face justice for his alleged role in the violence in Nigeria. IPOB’s political wing argued that Ekpa’s actions have caused immense harm to the Biafra cause, tarnishing its image globally and inflicting suffering on innocent civilians .
IPOB also refuted claims linking Ekpa’s faction to the ESN, which it describes as a disciplined group tasked solely with protecting Igbo communities from external threats such as violent herders. The group insists that any criminal activities attributed to Ekpa’s followers should not be associated with IPOB or ESN. They stressed that the ESN operates under IPOB’s central command and adheres strictly to the group’s mandate, which does not include violence against civilians or economic disruption .
The group reiterated its primary demand: the release of Nnamdi Kanu, whom IPOB claims has been unjustly detained by the Nigerian government despite court rulings ordering his release. IPOB maintains that Kanu’s leadership is key to its peaceful struggle for Biafra’s independence. In contrast, they accused Ekpa of exploiting the movement for personal gain, further damaging the cause by inciting violence and aligning with questionable sponsors .
Public reactions to Ekpa’s activities and his recent arrest have been divisive. While some applaud Finnish authorities for holding him accountable, others view the situation as further complicating the already volatile struggle for Biafran independence. IPOB insists that its focus remains on lawful and peaceful self-determination efforts, urging all stakeholders to distinguish between its activities and those of Simon Ekpa and his Autopilot faction .
