Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly declared his support for activist and presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore’s nationwide campaign demanding the immediate release or trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement shared on his official X platform, Atiku described Kanu’s prolonged detention despite court orders granting him bail as “an open sore on our nation’s conscience” and a “stain on our belief in the rule of law.” He condemned the government’s defiance of court rulings as an abuse of power and an assault on justice.
“Atiku stressed Nigeria’s democratic credibility is at stake, warning that allowing Kanu’s detention to fester would deepen national wounds,” and emphasized that patriots must act to heal this persistent national affliction.
The campaign, led by Omoyele Sowore, calls for a peaceful, legal, and visible march to Aso Rock Villa in Abuja scheduled for October 20, 2025. Sowore has called on political, religious, and traditional leaders particularly those from the South-East to participate actively in the march. Prominent figures such as Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, former presidential candidate Peter Obi, and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe have been urged to join the movement.
Sowore revealed that some leaders, including Alex Otti and Soludo, have not responded to his calls, while Obi’s team acknowledged his message, and Abaribe promised to return his call. Atiku’s endorsement adds significant weight to the campaign, reflecting increased momentum among national leaders advocating justice for Kanu.
The movement aims to highlight ongoing concerns about the government’s refusal to comply with court orders and to demand accountability and adherence to the rule of law in Kanu’s case. Sowore emphasized that the campaign is a moral obligation transcending political differences, calling on leaders to prioritize justice over partisanship.