By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has expressed deep concern over the role of certain media outlets in Nigeria in perpetuating misinformation, gaslighting, and destructive propaganda orchestrated by the Nigerian state.

It said that the campaign appears designed to influence the ongoing legal proceedings involving its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, in Abuja, while also simultaneously justifying bloated security budgets that have enriched corrupt security chiefs and governors under the guise of addressing insecurity.

This was contained in an open letter signed by IPOB media and publicity secretary, Emma Powerful to Newspaper Editors and Television Proprietors and made available to journalists in Awka.

According to IPOB, journalists, like judges, teachers, doctors, and priests, are entrusted with a higher ethical calling.

It added: "Your profession demands adherence to the highest standards of truth, accuracy, and civic responsibility.

"Regrettably, some sections of the Nigerian media have become complicit in disseminating unverified and fabricated stories against IPOB and its security arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). By doing so, you unwittingly amplify the scourge of fake news, which erodes social cohesion, undermines public trust, and destabilizes civic discourse.

"IPOB has previously cautioned against this dangerous trend. However, it appears that economic hardship and deprivation have led some journalists to prioritize financial gain?through what is colloquially known as ?brown envelope journalism??over the verification of facts.

"This practice is not only damaging to the credibility of your profession but also harmful to the pursuit of justice in Mazi Nnamdi Kanu?s case, which is currently before the courts."

It urged the media not to encourage efforts from any quarters to manipulate public perception through false narratives targeting IPOB and ESN.

IPOB added: "We urge you to recognize that the anti-Biafra rhetoric, often fueled by ignorance, misrepresents the lawful and legitimate agitation for Biafra?s self-determination.

"The pursuit of Biafra is not a crime under international law, as enshrined in the United Nations Charter and the African Charter on Human and Peoples? Rights, to which Nigeria is a signatory. This agitation is not driven by a desire to monopolize natural resources, such as oil and gas, as some narratives falsely claim. Rather, it is a quest for the honor, dignity, and pride of the black race?a movement that transcends material wealth and seeks justice and self-determination for our people."

The group further called on all custodians of public information, to recommit to ethical journalism, verify information before publication, resist inducements that compromise their integrity, and uphold the principles of fairness and objectivity.

"The media has the power to foster truth and accountability or to perpetuate division and injustice. We implore you to choose the former.

"Let us collectively work toward a Nigeria where the media serves as a beacon of truth, not a tool for propaganda. The future of our society and the integrity of your profession depend on it" IPOB stated.

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