Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a leading Igbo socio-cultural organization, has condemned the persistent inaction of Southeast Governors regarding the prolonged detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The organization expressed frustration with the governors, accusing them of “playing the ostrich” and failing to prioritize the collective aspirations of the Southeast.
Okechukwu Isigozoro, the Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze’s faction, stated, “If there is further hesitation or lethargy in addressing this crucial issue of Kanu’s release, we will mobilize the electorate to express their discontent through their votes in the upcoming elections. This is a stern warning and should not be taken lightly.”
He further emphasized that Ohanaeze would pursue a “forensic intelligence inquiry” to investigate the allegations from Kanu’s family, claiming the Southeast Governors have declined invitations to discuss his release. “The shocking allegations… warrant immediate and thorough investigation,” Isigozoro said.
The group expressed deep concern over the political motivations driving the governors’ actions, suggesting that fears about re-election bids and political ramifications have led to their reluctance to engage the Federal Government. “The fear of impending political ramifications underscores a troubling pattern of self-serving politics over communal welfare,” Isigozoro said.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo made it clear that, in the absence of further action from the governors, the organization would take grassroots measures to facilitate Kanu’s release. “We declare that, in the absence of vigorous advocacy from these leaders, we shall adopt indigenous and grassroots approaches to facilitate Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release,” Isigozoro warned.
The organization’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, it said, hinges on Kanu’s release, claiming it would pave the way for peace and stability in the Southeast. “We firmly believe that the incessant insecurity challenges plaguing the Southeast will gradually diminish upon Kanu’s release,” the statement concluded.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo has pledged to offer itself as sureties to President Tinubu, willing to go to great lengths to secure Kanu’s freedom, even at the cost of personal liberties.