In a statement shared on X titled “Biafra’s Right to Self-Determination — A Call from Gunther Fehlinger-Jahn,” the activist outlines a framework he calls the Fehlinger Doctrine, designed to guide peaceful transitions in regions where governments have “systematically excluded or endangered” large populations.
Fehlinger-Jahn condemned the global inaction during the 1967–1970 Biafran War — a conflict that led to the deaths of over two million civilians, largely through famine — as “a moral catastrophe compounded by political cowardice.” He directly criticized the Nixon administration’s failure to intervene, calling for an apology from Western powers whose decisions allowed mass suffering.
“An apology would not change the past,” he wrote, “but it would signal a renewed commitment to act differently — to elevate human life above short-term strategic calculations.”
The “Fehlinger Doctrine” — A Blueprint for Peaceful Self-Determination
Fehlinger-Jahn’s doctrine rests on five principles:
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Rightful Self-Determination — Democratic, verifiable aspirations for self-rule should be facilitated by impartial international actors like the UN or OSCE.
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Managed Peaceful Partition — When state structures consistently oppress a region, international supervision should support an orderly, non-violent political transition.
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Humanitarian and Security Guarantees — Independent mechanisms must protect civilians and prevent reprisals during any political change.
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Reconstruction by Partnership — New states should be integrated into trade, investment, and development frameworks, not left in isolation.
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Justice and Reconciliation — Truth commissions, reparations, and inclusive institutions are vital to prevent revenge cycles.
A Peaceful “Ex-Nigeria” Framework
Fehlinger-Jahn envisions a phased process for Biafra and wider Nigerian reform, involving:
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Internationally monitored humanitarian corridors to prevent another famine;
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Negotiations under UN/AU oversight leading to constitutional reform or regional referenda;
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Reconstruction and investment funding supported by diaspora bonds and development banks;
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Security sector reform with international training and oversight;
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Recognition guarantees from neighboring states and regional blocs.
He stresses that the proposal is not a call for chaos or secession by force, but for a structured, internationally sanctioned process based on the will of the people.
“Managed breakup is not fragmentation for its own sake,” he wrote. “It is a pragmatic alternative to prolonged repression and recurring violence.”
A Warning to the International Community
Fehlinger-Jahn cautioned that support for Biafra must come with responsibility. He urged Western nations to distinguish peaceful civil movements from criminal networks operating in the region and to avoid militarizing the crisis.
“We must not repeat the mistakes of 1967. Support must be principled — tied to democracy, transparency, and protection for all ethnic and religious minorities.”
A Call for Moral Leadership
In closing, Fehlinger-Jahn extended an emotional message to survivors and descendants of the Biafran War:
“To the survivors of 1967–1970: I offer not only an apology on behalf of those powers that failed you, but a pledge — that today’s Europe will stand with you in principled, practical, and peaceful solidarity.”
He concluded that Europe and the global community have a moral obligation to help regions like Biafra achieve justice and stability — “not to divide for division’s sake, but to end exclusion and suffering with dignity and peace.”
— Gunther Fehlinger-Jahn (@GunterFehlinger) November 4, 2025
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