Simon Ekpa’s Proposed Biafra Faces Criticism Over Departure from Original Structure
Simon Ekpa, an Autopilot leader in the Biafra agitation movement, has come under scrutiny from Biafran traditionalists and IPOB loyalists for what some see as a departure from Biafra’s historical structure. Ekpa’s advocacy for a new model—structured around states rather than the original provinces—has raised questions about his alignment with the vision that Biafra’s founding fathers fought for during the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970).
Critics argue that if Ekpa were truly supporting the original Biafra envisioned by historical leaders like Odumegwu Ojukwu, he would uphold the provincial structure that defined Biafra’s identity and unity. The Biafran flag, with its rising sun featuring eleven rays, symbolized the eleven provinces that made up the Biafran territory: Enugu, Onitsha, Awka, Abakaliki, Umuahia, Owerri, Orlu, Calabar, Ogoja, Eket, and Uyo.
Some advocates suggest only one potential amendment to the original structure: adding a twelfth province for Anioma. Although Anioma was part of Nigeria’s Midwest region and not initially included in Biafra during the war, the Anioma people joined their Eastern brothers in the fight, hoping to join Biafra if it successfully seceded.
Calls are now mounting for Ekpa to clarify his position and align with the historical structure if he wishes to preserve Biafra’s legacy. “His proposed ‘New Biafran State’ model does not align with the flag or the provinces that symbolize Biafra’s struggle,” said one commentator. “Following the provincial model, as Nnamdi Kanu did, would honour the original vision and reduce confusion within the movement.
As Ekpa’s proposals gain attention, the question remains: will he adapt his vision to reflect Biafra’s historical identity, or continue with a structure that some see as divisive?
While the original eleven provinces of Biafra may evolve, I, as the admin of Igbo History, along with others, strongly believe that the new Biafra should focus on the five Igbo states and Anioma, as well as the Igbo in Rivers State who wish to join, which can be determined through a referendum. Igbos in Kogi, Edo, and Benue states might be added later through mutual understanding between Biafra and the Nigerian government.
Adding people to Biafra who don’t share its ideology makes no sense. We would be stronger with Anioma, the five Igbo states, and the willing Igbos in Rivers State.
