ABUJA, Nigeria – Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is optimistic about securing his release from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) by April 2025, according to Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA), FCT.
Ellis-Ezenekwe, who recently visited Kanu at the DSS headquarters in Abuja, reported that Kanu appeared healthy, had gained weight, and remained in high spirits despite his detention. Kanu expressed confidence in his legal team and hopes that the courts will grant him freedom soon.
During their meeting, Kanu expressed disappointment over the lack of strong Igbo leadership and called for renewed advocacy for the region's interests. He lamented the deteriorating conditions of the Igbo people in Nigeria, noting that no prominent voices are actively defending their cause.
Kanu also highlighted the historical neglect of Igbo freedom fighters, citing Ralph Uwazurike as an example. He warned that such neglect could weaken the struggle for self-determination and urged the Igbo community not to abandon their freedom fighters.
Ellis-Ezenekwe conveyed Kanu's passionate call for a referendum as a pivotal step towards self-determination. Kanu reiterated his belief that he has committed no offense other than urging his people to awaken from their slumber.
In a statement, Ellis-Ezenekwe appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to intervene in Kanu's case. He reminded the president of his past role in the pro-democracy movement and called on him to demonstrate the political will to secure Kanu's release, emphasizing that continued detention serves as a symbol of political repression rather than justice.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions between the Nigerian government and IPOB, with Kanu's release potentially impacting regional dynamics and the broader struggle for self-determination in the Southeast.