UN urges Nigeria to free Nnamdi Kanu now

DDM News

The United Nations has urged Nigeria to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu without further delay.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), remains in detention despite a UN directive for his release.

The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention condemned Kanu’s arrest and rendition from Kenya as violations of international human rights laws.

In July 2022, the UN demanded Kanu’s immediate release and compensation for his unlawful detention and alleged torture.

The UN also called for an independent investigation into officials responsible for his mistreatment while in custody.

Despite these demands, the Nigerian government has refused to comply, keeping Kanu in detention for nearly four years.

His legal team continues to challenge his detention, arguing that Nigeria is violating both international and domestic laws.

Lead counsel Aloy Ejimakor has repeatedly urged President Bola Tinubu to obey the UN directive and release Kanu immediately.

Ejimakor insists that the matter has become political and that Tinubu has the executive power to grant Kanu freedom.

Kanu’s continued detention has sparked widespread criticism from human rights organizations and political observers worldwide.

Today, March 21, 2025, Kanu will appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja to defend himself against government charges.

This court appearance is considered a crucial moment in determining his fate after years of legal battles.

Supporters of IPOB have intensified their demands for his unconditional release ahead of the court proceedings.

Security agencies have increased their presence in Abuja to prevent protests or disruptions during the hearing.

Former Imo State Attorney-General Chukwuma Machukwu Ume recently appealed to Tinubu to intervene and release Kanu.

Ume argued that freeing Kanu would promote peace and reconciliation in the South-East region, which has witnessed unrest.

Many believe that Kanu’s prolonged detention is fueling political tensions and security challenges in the country.

International human rights organizations continue to pressure Nigeria to respect the UN’s ruling and grant Kanu his freedom.

Political analysts suggest that the Nigerian government risks damaging its global reputation by ignoring the UN’s directive.

The UN’s call for Kanu’s release has been supported by several international legal and diplomatic groups.

Some believe that addressing Kanu’s case fairly could help de-escalate the security crisis in the South-East.

Meanwhile, IPOB has vowed to continue its peaceful agitation for self-determination, regardless of the court’s verdict.

Legal experts argue that Kanu’s trial will be a test of Nigeria’s commitment to justice and human rights.

Many Nigerians are closely watching today’s proceedings, hoping for a resolution to the long-standing legal battle.

The global community will also be monitoring the trial to see if Nigeria upholds international legal standards.

All eyes are now on the Federal High Court and the Nigerian government as Kanu’s trial unfolds.

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