South-East Governors Under Fire for Alleged Inaction on Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

 South-East Governors Under Fire for Alleged Inaction on Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

The family of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has accused South-East governors of failing to take decisive action in securing his release. The criticism, voiced during a memorial event in Umuahia for Kanu’s late parents, HRM Eze Israel and Ugoeze Sally Kanu, underscores growing frustrations over what is perceived as political indifference.

South-East Governors’ Alleged Indifference

Prince Emmanuel Kanu, speaking on behalf of the family, did not mince words when he called out the governors for their apparent lack of commitment. “South-East governors are not doing enough to secure the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. It’s either they are complicit or simply indifferent,” he stated.

According to reports, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had previously outlined specific conditions that needed to be met before Kanu’s release could be considered. However, the family claims that the governors have failed to meet these conditions, further delaying the process. “The big question is: Why have they not met with Mr. President on Nnamdi Kanu? Information available to us indicates that President Tinubu asked them to fulfill certain conditions,” Prince Emmanuel revealed.

The Political and Security Implications

The delay in securing Kanu’s freedom has fueled speculation that some political actors may be benefiting from the unrest in the South-East. “Are they benefiting from the instability? Free Nnamdi Kanu today, and all this tension will disappear within 24 hours. The real perpetrators of crime in the region will be exposed,” Prince Emmanuel asserted.

Prominent voices in the pro-Biafra movement have echoed these concerns. High Chief Agonsi Ebere, speaking on behalf of Biafra elders, emphasized that the continued detention of Kanu is an obstacle to peace in the region. “We are here to honor our leaders who sacrificed for Biafra’s freedom. We urge President Tinubu to release Kanu to Biafra elders. His release will restore peace to the South-East,” Ebere stated.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s Warning to Saboteurs

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has also raised alarms, alleging that certain South-East governors and political elites are actively sabotaging efforts to secure an out-of-court settlement for Kanu. In a statement issued in June 2024, Ohanaeze warned these individuals against obstructing justice, emphasizing that the majority of Igbos demand Kanu’s release as part of a broader peace process.

Judicial Controversy: Justice Binta Nyako’s Role

The family has further criticized Justice Binta Nyako’s decision to indefinitely adjourn Kanu’s trial. According to them, she had previously recused herself from the case, raising questions about her renewed involvement. “Why is she forcing herself back into the case? Does she have a vested interest? She has rejected every application to move Nnamdi Kanu to prison custody and insists on keeping him in harsh conditions at the DSS facility,” the family said.

International Pressure and Human Rights Concerns

Beyond Nigeria, Kanu’s continued detention has drawn international attention. His family and supporters argue that he is a prisoner of conscience whose activism for self-determination should not be criminalized. Human rights organizations have called on the Nigerian government to respect legal rulings, particularly the 2022 judgment by the United Nations Human Rights Council Working Group, which recommended his immediate release.

The Growing Demand for Kanu’s Release

The agitation for Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom continues to gain momentum, with pressure mounting on both federal and regional authorities. His family maintains that his unconditional release is crucial to de-escalating tensions in the South-East. “This is no longer just a legal issue; it is a matter of justice, equity, and peace,” Prince Emmanuel concluded.

As the political climate in Nigeria evolves, the handling of Kanu’s case will remain a significant test for the Tinubu administration and South-East governors. Will they step up and facilitate a resolution, or will history judge them as complicit in prolonging the crisis? Only time will tell.