The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has dismissed appeals for his release, insisting that he has committed no crime and should be freed based on existing court rulings.
Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, following fresh calls from South East leaders urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene in securing his release. Among those advocating for his freedom is the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, alongside other lawmakers from the region.
However, Kanu has reportedly expressed displeasure over such appeals, emphasizing that his release should not be framed as an act of mercy, pardon, or clemency, but as a legal necessity.
Ejimakor, via his social media handle, stated:
During my visit to Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, he made it clear that while he appreciates the efforts of those advocating for his release, he strongly insists that he should not be subjected to pleas or appeals for clemency because he has not committed any crime.
According to Ejimakor, Kanu stressed that his continued detention contradicts a Federal High Court ruling that declared it unconstitutional, as well as international tribunal decisions that deemed his arrest and extraordinary rendition from Kenya illegal.
Kanu further argued that self-determination—the basis for his prosecution—is a fundamental right recognized under Nigerian law, as well as international conventions, and should not be criminalized. He urged supporters and stakeholders to advocate for his release in the same manner as groups such as Afenifere, Ohaneze Ndigbo, the World Igbo Congress (WIC), and international organizations, who assert that his detention is a violation of the rule of law.
If any appeals should be made, they should be directed at the judiciary to ensure that my case and those of IPOB members are handled with fairness, equity, and adherence to the rule of law,”* he reportedly said.
Kanu also extended his gratitude to all those working towards restoring peace and security in the South East, while reiterating his stance that justice should take precedence over political negotiations.
