You're disrespectful to Nigeria - FG, UK Government at ‘war’ over asylum to IPOB members

The Federal Government has reacted to reports that circulated in the media stating that the United Kingdom was ready to grant asylum to persecuted members of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The Federal Government through the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed said it was disrespectful to Nigeria as a nation and it amounted to sabotaging the fight against terrorism and generally undermining Nigeria’s security. He said the decision is unacceptable to Nigeria.

“Let me say straight away that this issue is within the purview of the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs and I am sure he will handle it appropriately.

“But as the spokesman for the Federal Government of Nigeria, I will say that if indeed the report that the UK will grant asylum to supposedly persecuted IPOB and MASSOB members is true, then something is wrong somewhere.

“Against the background of the fact that IPOB is not only proscribed but also designated as a terrorist organization here in Nigeria, the UK’s decision is disrespectful of Nigeria as a nation.

“The decision amounts to sabotaging the fight against terrorism and generally undermining Nigeria’s security.

“It is not only unconscionable, but it is also inexplicable,” he said.