Igbo CSOs Demand Unity for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release Amid Growing Injustice

Two United States-based Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the Rising Sun Foundation and Ambassadors for Self-Determination, have called on Igbo leaders both in Nigeria and the diaspora to unite in demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as well as advocating for the future of the Igbo people.

In their statement issued on Monday in Abuja, the CSOs acknowledged that the presidency under Bola Ahmed Tinubu is slowly responding to the Igbo people’s demands for Kanu’s release, but emphasized that the need for unity and action among Igbo leaders has never been more urgent.

The statement, jointly signed by Chief Maxwell Dede Emole, Nduru Chebe Oha, Abiriba, and Dr. Remy Okea on behalf of the Rising Sun Foundation Inc., USA, alongside Engrs. Evans Nwankwo and Benjamin Nwankwo for Ambassadors for Self-Determination, condemned the ongoing detention of Kanu, who has now spent 30 months in the custody of Nigeria’s Directorate of State Security Services (DSS).

According to the CSOs, the Igbo nation can no longer remain silent in the face of Kanu’s prolonged and unjust incarceration. They stressed that despite numerous court orders calling for his unconditional release, Kanu continues to suffer under harsh conditions that violate his human rights.

“As he marks 30 months of unjust incarceration, we must raise our voices against this blatant violation, especially considering the multiple court rulings that demand his release,” the statement read.

The groups also noted a troubling contrast in the Nigerian government’s handling of other political detainees, such as Chief Sunday Igboho of the Yoruba Nation, Omoyele Sowore of the Revolution Now movement, and even Bello Bodejo of the Miyetti Allah group. Unlike Kanu, these individuals were released with their legal cases dismissed, prompting concerns about the selective application of justice in the country.

Kanu remains the only political prisoner in this context, a situation that the CSOs argue highlights systemic issues within Nigeria’s political structure. They also expressed disappointment in the lack of a robust advocacy from political leaders, particularly governors and members of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, who have been silent or ineffective in pushing for Kanu’s freedom.

The statement accused these leaders of putting their personal political ambitions above the collective welfare of the Igbo people, claiming that while they publicly call for Kanu’s release, they covertly negotiate his continued imprisonment.

The CSOs emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that Kanu’s detention is not just a personal tragedy but a symbol of the broader struggle for Igbo identity, justice, and freedom. “As long as Nnamdi Kanu remains imprisoned, the entire Igbo nation is held captive,” they declared, underscoring the importance of his release for the well-being of the Igbo people.

The organizations also acknowledged the rapid changes in the world, driven by advancements in technology and artificial intelligence, urging the Igbo people to remain steadfast and proactive in securing their future. “This is not merely a plea for one man’s freedom; it is a rallying cry for the liberation of our entire people,” they said.

Calling for unity, the CSOs urged all Igbo people—masses, politicians, traditional rulers, and thought leaders—to set aside personal interests and unite for Kanu’s release and the broader cause of Igbo progress. “We must confront the challenges we face with solidarity and resilience,” the statement stressed.

The CSOs also appealed to the Nigerian government to respect the rulings of Nigerian courts and the United Nations Human Rights Council, demanding Kanu’s immediate and unconditional release. They warned that failure to act could result in widespread unrest, with consequences for the country’s stability.

With time running out, the groups remain hopeful that, through collective action, Nnamdi Kanu will be released, ushering in a new era of freedom, dignity, and progress for the Igbo people. “Together, we can overcome any adversary and achieve the heights of recognition and autonomy that we rightfully deserve,” the statement concluded.