Nnamdi Kanu and Other Political Prisoners Must Be Freed – Igbo Elders Demand

Igbo elders call for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu and other political detainees, urging the Nigerian government to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation in addressing regional tensions.

The United Igbo Elders Council, UNIEC, representing the respected leaders of the Igbo community has urged the Federal Government to immediately and without any conditions release Nnamdi Kanu – Leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) along with all other political prisoners.

On Saturday, Prof Obasi Igwe, the Director of Media and Publicity, alongside Alpha Justice who is the Coordinator-General spoke on behalf of their group to make this demand as stated in a press release.

The Igbo elders demanded an instant halt to any illegal, covert detentions and killings carried out under the guise of anonymity during nighttime. Moreover, they urged for all ports and economic blockades targeting Eastern Nigeria to cease immediately.

The group outlined a five-point agenda titled “New Governance Model for Nigeria” aimed at achieving significant peace and development in the country.

Following a thorough analysis of various proposals and consultations, UNIEC has announced its decision that restructuring, regionalism, and referendum are all viable solutions for bringing peace and stability to Nigeria in the current dire situation.

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The declaration stated that as of mid-2015, there were no rebellions or conflicts aimed at overthrowing the Federal Government or establishing a Biafra within Igbo communities – this remains true with the exception of one manufactured by a ruthless leader who has openly ordered to shoot and kill innocent youths in an effort to punish Igbos for their past transgressions.

Our demand is the immediate and unconditional release, without exception or condition, of all political prisoners. This includes Mazi Nnamdi Kanu – leader of IPOB – as well as his colleagues who have been unlawfully arrested and detained in secret during nighttime raids which often result in extrajudicial killings. We urge an end to these practices altogether.

It is of no benefit to the nation to imprison an innocent citizen who has been subjected to immeasurable torture, victimization and dehumanization like Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Equal access to the Igbo/Eastern Ports system would promote development not only in that region but also throughout the Eastern Middle Belt and beyond. Conversely, continuing to restrict usage of these ports is having a detrimental effect on all areas eastward down to Maiduguri.

“Nigeria’s call for restructuring involves the implementation of single-nationality regions alongside multi-ethnic nationality regions, with their respective numbers determined through competitive regional deliberation.”

Without a proper political economy or foundation, which serves as the base for the superstructure to stand on, any excellently crafted economic policy or blueprint becomes ineffective in surpassing the neocolonial glass ceiling by only an insignificant amount.