Amid the controversy surrounding the Simon Ekpa-led pro-Biafra referendum, the Organization of Emerging African States (OEAS) has declared that the results will be a binding and definitive statement under international law. This announcement adds a significant dimension to the ongoing debate over Biafra’s self-determination.
While major pro-Biafra groups like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Biafra Zionists Federation (BZF), and the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) continue to call for a referendum, the Ekpa-led Biafra Republic Government In-Exile (BRGIE) claims to be conducting an online referendum.
Ebenezer Akwanga, Director of OEAS, stated in a six-point resolution dated June 24, 2024, that the BRGIE’s referendum reinforces Biafra’s self-determination efforts, which have been propelled by decades of alleged marginalization by the Nigerian government. The referendum began with e-voting in February 2024 and is scheduled to conclude on November 29, 2024.
Akwanga highlighted that the African Charter of Human and Peoples’ Rights guarantees the right to self-determination. He noted that Biafra has submitted a request to the African Union (AU) for assistance with the referendum and the peaceful transfer of power to the Republic of Biafra, contingent on the referendum results.
“The OEAS is satisfied with the integrity of the referendum, which is being conducted digitally and at local polling stations, and is subject to multiple safeguards,” Akwanga said. “The results will meet international standards; millions of Biafrans have already voted, and the results will be considered binding under international law as a definitive statement of the Biafran people’s intentions and aspirations.”
This development follows the BRGIE’s recent submission to the AU, calling for the release of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and recognition of the Biafra referendum. Ekpa has asserted that the declaration of Biafra’s liberation on December 2, 2024, will bring peace and stability to West Africa.
In a related development, Kanu has recently agreed to negotiate with the Nigerian Federal Government for his release, which has intensified calls for a political solution to his incarceration. Over 50 federal lawmakers are backing this request.