Share!
Atiku Describes Kanu’s Detention as Stain on Nigeria’s Conscienc
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for the immediate release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, describing his continued detention as “an open sore on the nation’s conscience” and a violation of the rule of law.
Atiku made the call on Thursday in a post on his official X handle, expressing support for human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who had earlier urged South-East leaders and Nigerians at large to join him in a protest to demand Kanu’s release.
“The continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains an open sore on our nation’s conscience and a stain on our belief in the rule of law,” Atiku said. “Defying court orders that granted him bail is an abuse of power and an assault on justice. I, therefore, lend my voice in full support of the campaign led by @YeleSowore for his immediate release or due prosecution.”
The former Vice President added that the government’s refusal to comply with multiple court rulings ordering Kanu’s release reflects poorly on Nigeria’s commitment to justice and democracy. “We fail as patriots if we allow Kanu’s case to fester as yet another wound this nation refuses to heal,” he stated.
Background
Nnamdi Kanu, leader of IPOB—a separatist movement seeking the creation of an independent state of Biafra—was first arrested in 2015 by the Department of State Services (DSS) on charges of treasonable felony, terrorism, and incitement. He was granted bail in April 2017 but fled the country following a military operation at his Abia State residence during “Operation Python Dance II.”
In June 2021, Kanu was rearrested in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria under controversial circumstances. Since then, he has remained in DSS custody in Abuja, despite several court orders—including one from the Court of Appeal—directing his release. The federal government has, however, insisted on holding him, citing pending legal processes and national security concerns.
