The newly appointed Head of the Directorate of State (DOS) of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Chris Nwaọgụ, has formally accepted his appointment and outlined key priorities for the movement’s fourth administration, pledging to intensify efforts toward the release of detained members, strengthen international advocacy, and promote what he described as the peaceful pursuit of self-determination.

In an acceptance speech delivered on June 18, 2026, Nwaọgụ described his appointment as a sacred responsibility entrusted to him by IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, and vowed to serve with humility, discipline and dedication.

He paid tribute to Kanu, commending his resilience amid years of legal challenges, detention and political controversy. According to Nwaọgụ, the IPOB leader’s commitment to the movement’s objectives has continued to inspire supporters both within Nigeria and across the diaspora.

The new DOS head also acknowledged the sacrifices of detained IPOB members and individuals who have suffered in connection with the agitation for Biafra, describing them as important contributors to the movement’s history.

Release of Nnamdi Kanu Tops Agenda

Nwaọgụ stated that securing the unconditional release of Kanu and other individuals detained over their association with the Biafra cause would remain the administration’s immediate priority.

According to him, the new leadership intends to intensify advocacy efforts aimed at drawing attention to what it considers issues surrounding the detention of IPOB members and supporters.

Focus on International Engagement

The new administration also pledged to expand diplomatic outreach and international engagement.

Nwaọgụ disclosed that IPOB would continue to engage stakeholders in the United States, Europe and Israel in a bid to increase awareness of the group’s position on self-determination and to garner international support for its objectives.

He stressed the importance of sustained global advocacy, describing it as a critical component of the movement’s long-term strategy.

Security and Public Perception

Addressing concerns about insecurity in the South-East, Nwaọgụ reiterated IPOB’s position that it is not responsible for violent activities in the region.

He argued that the movement and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) had been unfairly linked to insecurity through what he described as a deliberate misinformation campaign.

According to him, one of the major tasks before the new administration would be to improve public understanding of IPOB’s activities through public engagement, advocacy and information campaigns.

He said the leadership intends to devote significant resources toward correcting what it views as misconceptions about the organisation and its objectives.

Call for Unity Within IPOB

Nwaọgụ also appealed for greater unity among IPOB members worldwide, urging supporters to put aside internal disagreements and focus on the movement’s broader goals.

He stressed the need for discipline, intellectual engagement and constructive dialogue, saying internal divisions and controversies could undermine collective efforts.

According to him, the movement’s future would be better served through reasoned debate, strategic thinking and adherence to its founding principles.

Referendum Remains Preferred Option

The new DOS head reaffirmed IPOB’s long-standing support for a referendum as the preferred means of determining the political future of the Igbo people.

He referenced recent conversations surrounding the future of Ndigbo and welcomed discussions on the political aspirations of the region.

Nwaọgụ specifically referred to comments by Charles Chukwuma Soludo regarding the future of the South-East, stating that IPOB would participate in any credible and sincere dialogue concerning the interests of the Igbo people.

According to him, a referendum remains the most democratic and internationally recognised mechanism through which citizens can freely express their political preferences.

Tribute to Outgoing Leadership

The incoming DOS leader also commended members of the third administration of the Directorate of State for their service during what he described as one of the most challenging periods in the organisation’s history.

He thanked outgoing officials for their contributions and encouraged them to continue providing guidance and support to the new leadership.

Nwaọgụ concluded by calling for renewed commitment among IPOB members, urging supporters to unite behind what he described as the movement’s common purpose.

He stated that the full composition of the fourth administration of the Directorate of State would be unveiled in the coming days through official IPOB communication channels.

The speech marks the first major policy outline from the new DOS leadership and signals the direction the organisation intends to pursue in the coming months.