IPOB: South-east Govs Must Fight For Kanu’s Release

The family of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu has challenged the governors in the south east on the continued detention of their son by the federal government.

Kanu’s brother, Emmanuel spoke on behalf of the family in a letter he wrote to the five governors from the region, stating that they will be held responsible if the IPOB leader died in detention.

The IPOB leader has been in detention since his arrest in Kenya in 2021 by both Nigerian and the east African nation.

The federal government has rebuffed appeals from prominent Nigerians, particularly from Igbo leaders to release him, saying the law must take its full course.

Last year, Governor Soludo of Anambra state urged the federal government to release Kanu to him, stating that peace would return to the restive region if he’s released from detention.

The IPOB strongman is being prosecuted on terrorism related charges.

While condemning the unlawful detention, Emmanuel said the south east governors have not done enough to ensure that Kanu’s freedom from detention.

According to him, the governors have failed in their duties to protect and defend the rights and freedom of Igbo, including Kanu, describing his arrest as a “grave injustice.”

He said “I am writing this letter with utmost urgency and deep concern regarding the unlawful and unjust detention of my brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

“In recent events, it has become abundantly clear my brother, a law-abiding citizen and a prisoner of conscience, has been wrongfully held against his will and his fundamental human rights have been violated under your watch.

“As a concerned family member, I implore you to rectify this without delay.

“Kanu is a man of impeccable character and a strong advocate for justice, freedom, and equality. He has consistently stood up for the righteous causes in our society, challenging the status quo and working tirelessly to bring about positive change.

“It is truly disheartening to witness his unwavering commitment to safeguarding human rights being met with such callousness and disregard for basic principles of justice.

“The details surrounding my brother’s arrest and subsequent detention are deeply troubling and indicative of a systemic failure within our justice system.

He stated further that Kanu’s arrest was basically to silence him as a freedom fighter, adding that there’s no basis for his current predicament.

He said: “The charges brought against him are baseless and appear to be nothing more than an attempt to silence his voice and undermine his campaign for social justice. His detention is politically motivated, solely aimed at suppressing his activism and preventing him from continuing his valuable contribution to our society.

“As a concerned family member, I strongly condemn the unlawful detention of my brother and the blatant violation of his rights. It is your duty as governor to ensure the protection of every individual’s civil liberties, regardless of their beliefs or affiliations. Your obligation to uphold the principles of justice and fairness should guide your actions in every decision made.

“I demand you take immediate and decisive action to secure the release of my brother. I call for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his arrest and detention, holding accountable those responsible for these egregious violations.