Nnamdi Kanu Demands Biafran Referendum, Rejects Talks

Nnamdi Kanu, the convicted leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), stated he would not engage in political negotiations that do not include a referendum on Biafran independence. He made this declaration during an address to the American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) at their annual convention in Duluth, Georgia, from October 9 to 11, 2026.

In his address, dated September 30, 2026, Kanu emphasized that discussions about political appointments or restructuring would not be entertained unless they addressed Biafran sovereignty. He insisted that the people of the proposed Biafran state must have the right to determine their political future through a referendum.

Kanu described his commitment to Biafran independence as a pursuit of a peaceful homeland, having spent eight years in detention for this cause. He criticized the Nigerian government for his previous arrests and the judicial process that led to his conviction, alleging it relied on repealed laws.