‘Ndigbo must not build Biafra struggle on propaganda’

Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, a human rights lawyer and lead counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has called on the Ndigbo people to move beyond destructive rhetoric and embrace a more principled approach to the Biafra struggle. Ejiofor urged them to reject narratives that glorify bloodshed and division, asserting that the pursuit of Biafra's independence must be founded on truth, not propaganda or falsehoods.

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Biafra struggle must not be built on falsehoods and propaganda.

Ejiofor expressed concern over the spread of misinformation in the South-East, warning that such tactics have caused significant harm. He advocated for a peaceful, disciplined, and people-centered strategy, anchored in a human-faced vision for self-determination. According to Ejiofor, the future of the Ndigbo hinges on wisdom, strategic leadership, and an unwavering commitment to preserving human life and dignity, rather than celebrating conflict.

Highlighting the destructive consequences of propaganda, Ejiofor stated that it not only distorts facts but also erodes independent judgment. He argued that no cause, however noble, can succeed if built on manipulation. "Truth is not an obstacle to any genuine struggle; it is its strongest foundation," he declared, warning that when truth is sacrificed for propaganda, generations inevitably suffer the consequences. Ejiofor noted that while wars are fought with both bullets and narratives, temporary emotional victories from propaganda cannot replace objective reality.

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No cause, however noble or divinely inspired, can succeed if it is built upon manipulation and misinformation. Truth is not an obstacle to any genuine struggle; it is its strongest foundation.

Despite past criticisms of misinformation, Ejiofor found recent developments under the current IPOB leadership, headed by Mazi Chika Edoziem, to be encouraging. He stated that the current leadership has moved away from patterns of misinformation and deception. Ejiofor maintained that if the aspiration for self-determination is genuinely rooted in justice, equity, and the collective welfare of the people, then transparency, honesty, and accountability must be guiding principles.

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History repeatedly reminds us that when comforting falsehoods replace uncomfortable truths, the human cost is often devastating.