Biafra: Army, governors’ declaration of IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu as terrorists unconstitutional – Saraki

The President of the Senate, Senator Bukola Saraki, on Monday described as unconstitutional the decision of the Nigerian Army to declare the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, as a terrorist group.
Saraki, in a statement said, “due process” was not followed before proscribing the group both by the Nigerian Amy and South East governors.

He noted that, “initiating the right process” will go a long way in demonstrating to the world that Nigeria operates by laid down process under every circumstance.
Noting that the National Assembly will investigate the crisis in the South East, Saraki called for calm pending the investigation.
“The announcement of the proscription of the group known as Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) by Governors of the South-east states and the categorisation of the group as a ‘terrorist organisation’ by the Nigerian military are unconstitutional and does not follow due process.
“Our laws make clear provisions for taking such actions and without the due process being followed, such declaration cannot have effect. I am sure the President will do the needful by initiating the right process.”

“Our brothers and sisters in the South-east, in particular, should continue to maintain peace and tranquility and go about their lawful business. This crisis will not benefit anybody but would only expose innocent people to unwarranted danger.”
Saraki had said the Senate would soon meet with security chiefs over military action against members of IPOB and their leader, Nnamdi Kanu.