By Dalena Reporters Desk
A fresh wave of online debate has emerged over the Biafra question after European political commentator Gunther Fehlinger-Jahn renewed calls for the independence of Biafra from Nigeria in a post on X (formerly Twitter). The activist directly tagged U.S. President Donald Trump, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and major Nigerian media outlets while making the controversial statement.
“I call for independence of Biafra Republic of #ExNigeria,” Fehlinger-Jahn wrote.
“And my apologies — Nixon failed you in 1967.”
The post references the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), when the Eastern Region attempted to secede as the Republic of Biafra. Fehlinger-Jahn’s statement suggests a criticism of former U.S. President Richard Nixon’s historical position on that conflict, implying American failure to support Biafra at the time — a sentiment that taps into long-standing grievances held by many pro-Biafra advocates.I call for independence of Biafra Republic of #ExNigeria @POTUS @officialABAT @NigeriainfoFM
— Gunther Fehlinger-Jahn (@GunterFehlinger) November 2, 2025
And my apologize Nixon failed you in 1967 pic.twitter.com/itk0tDfUU6
A Sensitive Historical Wound Reopened
The Biafra issue remains one of the most delicate chapters in Nigeria’s political history. Millions of Igbo civilians suffered casualties and displacement during the civil war, and the topic continues to evoke emotional responses across communities in Nigeria and the diaspora.
While Fehlinger-Jahn’s comments appear personal rather than an official diplomatic position, the message has reignited discussions around self-determination, minority rights, and federal governance in Nigeria. Analysts note that foreign commentary on internal Nigerian matters — especially relating to Biafra — often generates swift reactions due to its sensitive nature.
The public tagging of world leaders, including the U.S. President and Nigeria’s current head of state, suggests an attempt to internationalize the conversation around Biafra’s political aspirations. With global focus sharpening on democratic governance, security crises in West Africa, and rising separatist sentiments worldwide, the post enters a larger dialogue on sovereignty and nationhood in the 21st century.
However, no official government responses had been issued at the time of publication. Historically, Nigerian authorities have maintained a firm stance on national unity, rejecting any secessionist efforts and emphasizing constitutional integrity.
Digital Activism Meets Geopolitical Memory
Fehlinger-Jahn’s statement also underscores the power of digital platforms in reviving historical memory and shaping political activism. The apology regarding Nixon’s era introduces historical reflection into present-day advocacy, suggesting that geopolitical decisions from decades past still carry weight in contemporary discourse.
As conversations grow around identity, federalism, and political representation in Nigeria, voices from abroad continue to add complexity to the debate. While the post has amplified pro-Biafra sentiment on social media, analysts caution that such international comments — without formal diplomatic context — may fuel tension rather than foster constructive dialogue.
For now, the message highlights a familiar truth: the Biafra question, though settled militarily more than half a century ago, remains deeply unsettled in hearts, memories, and global opinion arenas.