Biafran news 2018
Here are some notable news stories related to Biafra from 2018:
- Nnamdi Kanu's Arrest and Detention: In September 2018, Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was arrested by the Nigerian government while he was on a trip to London. He was later detained in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, and has been held without trial since then.
- IPOB's Protests and Clashes: Throughout 2018, IPOB members and supporters held several protests and rallies across Nigeria, calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu and the independence of Biafra. These protests often turned violent, resulting in clashes with security forces and the deaths of several people.
- Biafra Day Celebrations: On May 30, 2018, IPOB members and supporters celebrated Biafra Day, which commemorates the declaration of the Republic of Biafra in 1967. The celebrations were marked by protests and rallies across Nigeria and in diaspora communities.
- Nigerian Government's Crackdown: In response to the growing Biafran agitation, the Nigerian government launched a crackdown on IPOB members and supporters. This included the arrest and detention of several high-profile IPOB leaders and the deployment of security forces to the southeast region of Nigeria, where the majority of Biafrans reside.
- International Intervention: In 2018, several international organizations and governments expressed concern over the human rights situation in Nigeria, particularly in relation to the Biafran agitation. The United States, the European Union, and the United Nations all called for restraint and dialogue between the Nigerian government and IPOB.
- Biafran Refugees in Cameroon: In 2018, the situation of Biafran refugees in Cameroon continued to deteriorate. Many Biafrans who fled Nigeria due to persecution and violence were forced to live in refugee camps in Cameroon, where they faced poor living conditions and limited access to basic services.
- IPOB's Split: In 2018, IPOB suffered a split when a faction led by a former member, Chika Edoziem, broke away from the group. Edoziem accused Kanu of being a dictator and of using IPOB for personal gain.
These are just a few of the many news stories related to Biafra from 2018. The situation in Nigeria remains complex and volatile, with ongoing tensions between the government and IPOB.