NIGERIA: Ohanaeze Ndigbo Demands Nnamdi Kanu’s Release, Calls Detention “Unjust”

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has urged the Federal Government to immediately release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

The group described Kanu’s continued incarceration as “unjust and unacceptable.”

The demand was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a two-day leadership retreat held at Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu, from June 4 to 5, 2025.

The document was jointly signed by Ohanaeze President-General Senator Azuta Mbata, Deputy Chairman Prince Okey Nwadinobi, Secretary-General Emeka Sibeudu, and National Publicity Secretary Dr. Ezechi Chukwu.

The retreat, themed “Rebuilding Our Foundation,” was attended by prominent Igbo leaders, including traditional rulers, academics, business leaders, and youth representatives. Participants condemned Kanu’s detention despite his court-ordered acquittal, urging the government to “find an alternative solution to his matter and release him.”

Chaired by the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, and declared open by Enugu State Deputy Governor Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, the retreat also emphasized Igbo unity, economic revival, and cultural revival through traditional values like Igwebuike (strength in unity) and Onye aghala nwanne ya (leave no one behind).

Other resolutions included backing a professorial endowment in seven universities to promote Igbo language and history research.

Ohanaeze also plans to present its programs and a draft constitution to Imeobi, its highest decision-making body, soon.

The call for Kanu’s release adds to growing pressure on the Federal Government over the IPOB leader’s prolonged detention despite legal rulings in his favor.