Ogbako Ndi Igbo: It’s time to release Kanu, group appeals

Ogbako Ndi Igbo Na Uwaniileh, a global Igbo cultural organization, has appealed to the Nigerian Government, stating “it’s time to release Kanu”.

The appeal was made regarding the ongoing detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The organization urges President Bola Tinubu to revisit Kanu’s case and take prompt action to secure his unconditional release.

According to the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the group asserted that Nnamdi Kanu’s arrest in Kenya on June 29, 2021, and subsequent detention by the Department of State Services (DSS), constitutes an unjust deprivation of liberty.

Ogbako Ndi Igbo contends that Kanu’s prolonged detention is solely due to his exercise of fundamental human rights.

The group emphasized that Kanu, whom they regarded as a prisoner of conscience, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to non-violence and poses no threat to public safety.

“Kanu’s arrest and imprisonment have sparked concerns about violations of international human rights standards and the principles of peaceful expression,” Vanguard reported.

The IPOB leader has been advocating for the secession of Biafra from Nigeria, which has led to tensions with the Nigerian government.

In a statement released and signed by the Ogbako Ndi-Igbo Media and Public Relations Adviser, Chief Lord Okey Igbokwe, the group stated that keeping Kanu in solitary confinement has been one of the major reasons for the insecurity presently ravaging the South-East zone of the country.

The group asserted that the IPOB leader’s detention has created an environment conducive to lawlessness, allowing hoodlums and non-state actors to engage in destructive activities that hinder the region’s economic advancement and national prosperity.

In addition, Ogbako Ndi Igbo in the statement urges President Tinubu to note that Nigeria’s Appeal Court dismissed all charges against Nnamdi Kanu in October 2022 and ordered his immediate release.

It further stated that “by granting Kanu’s freedom, the President would demonstrate impartiality and consistency in applying justice, adhering to the principle that what applies to one should equally apply to another.

“Sunday Adeniyi Adeyemo also known as Sunday Igboho is known for his advocacy for an independent Yoruba nation, like Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.”

“Igboho was arrested and released but to the greatest surprise of many Nigerians, he was recently spotted in London, protesting and submitting a petition to the UK Prime Minister, Mr Keir Starmer for Yoruba Nation recognition.”

The group therefore asked the president, stating “Mr. President, what is the difference between the crime Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is accused of and that of Sunday Adeyemo?

“Mr. President, we would like to bring to your attention the case of Chief Frederick Nwajagu, a prominent leader of the Ndi-Igbo community in Lagos State.”

“In April 2023, he was arrested and charged with terrorism-related offenses after allegedly threatening to invite the Eastern Security Network to Lagos to protect Igbo properties from vandalism and destruction by hoodlums.”

“Nwajagu, the Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate in Lagos, was questioned by the Department of State Services (DSS), regarding his alleged threat to invite the IPOB to safeguard Igbo-owned businesses and shops in Lagos State.

“Mr. President, we also like to bring to your attention the recent controversy surrounding Asari Dokubo, a Niger Delta Warlord.”

“He allegedly threatened to shoot down a military helicopter hovering near his residence, claiming he could take on the Nigerian military.”

“Furthermore, a video surfaced of him brandishing an AK-47 rifle and making threatening statements against the Igbo people.”

“Mr. President, we also to bring to your attention that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which Nigeria has signed, safeguards the rights to freedom of expression and belief.”

“Additionally, the protection of life and property is a cornerstone of civilized societies.

“It’s crucial that we uphold these principles while addressing concerns about national security and social cohesion.”

“We firmly believe that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and Chief Nwajagu are entitled to their fundamental rights.”

“We implore your office to treat this matter with utmost urgency and seriousness.

“The prolonged detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Chief Nwajagu, and other advocates for freedom constitutes a grave injustice and undermines the protection of basic human rights in Nigeria.”

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