PeacePro Criticizes IPOB’s Approach, Advocates Dialogue for Lasting Peace
The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has called on the members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to lay down their arms and surrender to the federal government, urging them to embrace peace and reconciliation. The call came as the group commemorated the 53rd anniversary of the historic Biafra surrender, which took place on January 13, 1970, marking the end of Nigeria’s civil war.
In a statement signed by the Executive Director of PeacePro, Mr. Abdulrazaq Hamsat, the organization emphasized the importance of adhering to the peace agreement that prioritized national unity and reconciliation. The group noted that the actions of IPOB, particularly its armed struggle and violent tactics, run counter to the peaceful resolution chosen by Biafran leaders five decades ago.
“The declaration of ‘No Victor, No Vanquished’ by the federal government laid the foundation for rebuilding and reintegrating the country,” the statement read. “We urge IPOB to follow this path, choosing dialogue over conflict to heal the wounds of the past.”
PeacePro reminded IPOB that the continued pursuit of violence dishonors the memory of those who chose peace to end the bloodshed during the Biafra war. “The decision to stop fighting and work towards peace remains a beacon for national unity,” the group asserted.
The organization also criticized IPOB’s call for the unconditional release of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, without a commitment to peace, describing such demands as misguided and counterproductive to long-term stability and development. “True peace and progress require acknowledgment of past mistakes and a willingness to change. IPOB’s violent activities have claimed countless lives and devastated the economy of the South-East,” PeacePro stated.
The foundation called on IPOB to recognize that sustainable peace can only be achieved through non-violent advocacy and peaceful negotiation, aligning with democratic principles and respect for human life.
