The office of the Presidency of Nigeria has formally accused the separatist group Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) of being instrumental in shaping recent threats by US President Donald Trump toward Nigeria. In a statement issued late Tuesday November 4th, the Presidency said documents and intelligence reports show IPOB engaged in diplomatic lobbying in the United States, aimed at influencing Washington’s stance on Nigeria’s internal security situation.
The statement referenced Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” for alleged Christian persecution — a move the Presidency says was partly orchestrated by IPOB supporters administering pressure campaigns overseas. According to the statement, IPOB’s actions include “false flag” reports of mass killings, orchestrated media leaks, and advocacy aimed at securing U.S. military intervention.
“This is not simply an internal matter. We face a coordinated attempt to weaponise Nigeria’s security vulnerabilities and invite external interference,” the statement read. The Presidency urged Nigerians to “remain calm and vigilant,” and said it has initiated investigations into foreign-based IPOB activities.
IPOB responded with its own statement, rejecting the claim as a diversion tactic by the federal government. The group reiterated its long-standing position of non-violent activism and accused the government of smear campaigns. Analysts believe the controversy underscores rising diplomatic tensions between the United States and Nigeria, and signals a more assertive posture by Nigeria’s leadership in safeguarding national sovereignty.
