Nnamdi Kanu’s Family Claims Agreement with Tinubu for Release Remains Unfulfilled

The family of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has revealed that an agreement was made with President Bola Tinubu for Kanu’s release. According to Kanu’s brother, Kanunta, this pact was established with the involvement of Tinubu’s son, Seyi, during the buildup to the 2023 presidential elections.

Kanunta disclosed that the meeting, which had the blessing of President Tinubu, was centered around the release of Kanu, the leader of the Biafran separatist group. However, Kanunta expressed his disappointment, stating that President Tinubu has yet to honor the agreement and release Kanu, despite their earlier understanding.

In a statement issued, Kanunta recounted the events leading to the agreement. He revealed that prior to the election, he received a message from a former governor informing him that Seyi Tinubu wished to meet. Kanunta agreed to the meeting on the condition that the key issue discussed would be the release of his brother, Nnamdi Kanu.

The meeting took place in Abuja with an additional witness present for independent verification, as Kanunta wanted to ensure the agreement’s credibility. Seyi confirmed that his father, President Tinubu, had sanctioned the discussion and assured that any agreement made would be binding on him if elected. As part of the understanding, Kanunta agreed to inform his brother, Kanu, that IPOB would not interfere with the 2023 elections, either through a boycott or any form of civil disobedience.

Following the agreement, Kanunta communicated the arrangement to Kanu, who reaffirmed his commitment to allow the elections to proceed without interference. Kanunta also pointed out that during his campaign, President Tinubu had publicly promised in Owerri to facilitate Kanu’s release if elected, further reinforcing the understanding they had reached.

However, despite the promises made and Kanu’s cooperation during the election period, Kanunta expressed frustration that nearly two years into President Tinubu’s administration, his brother remains in detention without facing any charges. Moreover, Kanunta highlighted the delay in the judicial process, with Justice Binta Nyako recusing herself from the case over three months ago, yet no new judge has been assigned to continue the proceedings.

The family is now calling on President Tinubu to honor his commitment and release Nnamdi Kanu as agreed.