Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has strongly called on the Federal Government to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, and ensure his safety and well-being.
The call, made by the group’s President-General, John Azuta-Mbata, also urged the government to allow Kanu to seek necessary medical treatment.
In a message issued on Thursday in Enugu, signed by Ohanaeze spokesperson Ezechi Chukwu, Azuta-Mbata not only demanded Kanu’s release but also appealed to the government to adopt a political solution to the matter.
“It is important that the government ensure his safety and his welfare,” he said, emphasizing that Kanu should be allowed to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
The Ohanaeze leader further expressed doubts over any significant advantage the government would gain from keeping Kanu in detention, urging for a swift resolution. “The government must adopt a political solution to this situation. I do not believe that the government has any serious advantage in keeping him any further,” Azuta-Mbata said.
The statement also highlighted the ongoing issues facing Igbos, as the group continues to advocate for the release of Kanu, who has been in detention for several years. Azuta-Mbata’s comments come amidst heightened tensions over Kanu’s prolonged incarceration and ongoing calls for his freedom.
In a related move, Azuta-Mbata also urged Igbos nationwide to take part in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stressing the importance of obtaining Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the next elections. He appealed to eligible Igbos, especially those over 18, to seize the opportunity to register before the deadline on December 12.
“I am calling on Ndigbo wherever you are in Nigeria to quickly go and take advantage of the voter registration that is going on right now to register,” he said. “Go and get your card as quickly as possible.”
