The family of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has urged President Bola Tinubu to release Kanu as a sign of respect for the late Ohanaeze Ndigbo President-General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu. Prince Emmanuel Kanu made this plea, highlighting the current judicial realities that could facilitate Kanu’s release through a political dialogue and solution ¹.
Kanu has been detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) despite several court rulings ordering his release. Recently, Justice Binta Nyako recused herself from Kanu’s case after he expressed lack of confidence in her. His lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, alleged that the DSS has denied Kanu access to his legal team, suggesting that Kanu’s solitary confinement might be indefinite.
The IPOB leader’s family requests fair treatment, citing the release of Sunday Igboho, a tribesman of President Tinubu. They appeal to President Tinubu and Southeast governors to honor the late Iwuanyanwu by releasing Kanu. IPOB seeks independence for the Biafran region, citing historical marginalization and poor investment by the Nigerian government ¹.
Key Points:
- Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention: Kanu has been held by the DSS despite court orders for his release.
- Family’s Plea: Prince Emmanuel Kanu urges President Tinubu to release Kanu as a sign of respect for the late Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
- IPOB’s Demands: The group seeks independence for Biafra, citing marginalization and poor investment by the Nigerian government.
- Justice Nyako’s Recusal: Kanu’s case faces uncertainty after Justice Binta Nyako’s withdrawal.
This development highlights the ongoing tensions between IPOB and the Nigerian government, with international organizations like Amnesty International reporting human rights concerns ¹.