Simon Ekpa’s United States of Biafra Seeks Recognition from Nigeria
The United States of Biafra (USB), led by Simon Ekpa, has formally sought recognition from Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu in a letter dated Monday. The letter, signed by Ekpa’s deputy, Dr. Ngozi Orabueze, was made public via X and highlights the group’s recent declaration of sovereignty.
In the three-page open letter, the USB claims that Biafra’s independence was “redeclared” during a convention in Lahti, Finland, on November 29, 2024, where over 50 million Biafrans allegedly voted in favor of a referendum for their nation’s sovereignty. The letter emphasizes that Biafra’s newly restored statehood is in line with the United Nations’ 1933 Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States, which outlines criteria for state recognition, including population, government, territory control, and the ability to establish foreign relations.
Orabueze, who serves as the Acting Head of State and Deputy Prime Minister of USB, asserts that Biafra fulfills all the necessary criteria to be recognized as a sovereign state. She writes, “The United States of Biafra has come to stay, and our arms are open to receive Nigeria for constructive dialogue aimed at a peaceful and sustainable dissolution, with mutual respect for both nations’ sovereignty.”
Biafra’s Path to Sovereignty: A Call for Recognition
The USB’s letter highlights Biafra’s independence, which was initially declared on May 30, 1967, and the recent referendum that took place from February to November 2024. According to the group, over 50 million Biafrans participated in the referendum, asserting their right to self-determination. Biafra’s new name was officially adopted during the Finland event.
The group claims that, despite their declaration, the right to defend their sovereignty and maintain independence is paramount, even before formal recognition. They further reiterate their desire to establish strong diplomatic ties with the international community in accordance with the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, with an emphasis on transparency, accountability, and eliminating corruption in governance.
Seeking Diplomatic Relations and Economic Growth
The United States of Biafra also expressed its commitment to creating a secure and transparent environment for both local and foreign investments. They aim to drive economic growth, foster entrepreneurship, reduce poverty, and improve the quality of life for their citizens. The group envisions transforming Biafra into a hub for trade and industry, leveraging its strategic location and abundant resources.
USB also requests Nigeria’s cooperation in securing their shared borders, emphasizing mutual respect for sovereignty and peaceful coexistence. Orabueze writes, “We seek Nigeria’s acknowledgment and respect for our sovereignty, advocacy for our nationhood, and cooperation in ascertaining and maintaining security on our common borders.”
In the letter, the group notes that it has already garnered recognition from some United Nations members, including Gabon, Haiti, Ivory Coast, Tanzania, and Zambia. USB now seeks formal acknowledgment from Nigeria to move forward with peaceful coexistence and mutual benefit for both nations.
As tensions continue to rise, the global community will be watching closely to see how Nigeria responds to these developments.
