Renowned political figure and former Anambra State Governorship aspirant, Chief Ike Oligbo, has made a passionate appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in detention since 2021.
This call comes as Nigeria grapples with widespread economic hardship and growing insecurity, particularly in the South-East region.
In a statement issued to the press, Oligbo advocated for justice, highlighting the potential dangers of Nnamdi Kanu’s prolonged detention.
He warned that his continued detention could further destabilize the country.
He emphasized that the Eastern region often felt marginalized in the Nigerian political structure, adding that keeping Kanu in detention only increased feelings of bitterness and alienation among the youth.
“The continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu serves no purpose other than to foment resentment and anger, particularly among the younger ones in the Eastern Nigeria.
“The Federal Government must rise above intimidation and call the bluff of those issuing threats over Kanu’s release. Justice demands fairness, and the charges against Kanu have proven difficult to substantiate. Keeping him detained any longer is unwarranted and unjust, ”Oligbo said.
He also drew attention to the economic situation in the country, saying that millions of Nigerians were facing untold hardships due to inflation and a dwindling economy.
He argued that this was the wrong time for political gamesmanship, especially when it involves a matter as sensitive as Kanu’s welfare and the unity of the nation.
“Amidst the current economic hardship, this is not the time to play politics with people’s lives. Government must demonstrate leadership by taking decisive actions that prioritize national unity and progress. Releasing Nnamdi Kanu is a step towards healing and reconciliation,” Oligbo concluded.
His call adds to the growing pressure on the Federal Government to adopt a more reconciliatory approach to the South-East crisis, with many advocating dialogue as a solution to the region’s persistent insecurity.
