IPOB Backs Nnamdi Kanu’s Claims After Garba Shehu Reveals Truth Behind Buhari’s 2017 Medical Leave
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has said that recent revelations by former presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu validate its long-standing concerns about transparency during Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
In a statement issued on Saturday, July 12, 2025, IPOB spokesperson, Comrade Emma Powerful, described Shehu’s admission regarding the infamous “villa rat invasion” as confirmation of what the group’s leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, had claimed years ago.
Garba Shehu, in a recent publication, disclosed that the explanation offered to Nigerians in 2017 that President Buhari could not resume duties immediately due to rats damaging his office was merely a public relations cover. In truth, the then-president was undergoing extended medical treatment abroad.
IPOB argued that this acknowledgment lends weight to Kanu’s repeated calls for openness in leadership, particularly during moments of national uncertainty. “Our leader was ridiculed for raising alarms over the government’s silence and misinformation, but this confession speaks volumes,” the statement said.
The group stressed the importance of public trust, noting that democracy thrives when leaders are held accountable and citizens are given truthful information.
While criticizing the Buhari administration’s handling of the president’s absence, IPOB also urged Nigerians to demand higher standards of governance and transparency. The group called on the international community to support efforts promoting justice, good governance, and the protection of civil liberties.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful advocacy, IPOB stated it will continue to pursue its objectives through lawful and internationally recognized means.
