By: Abba Onyekachukwu, Abuja.
Several civil society organizations, including the Eastern Union and Ohanaeze Youth Council, have expressed support for the planned October 20 nationwide protest demanding the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Kanu has been in detention since June 2021, sparking widespread calls for his release.
The groups argue that Kanu’s detention is unjust and a clear case of double standards, citing the government’s handling of other agitators and terrorists. They claim that while Kanu remains incarcerated, some known terrorists and insurgents have been granted amnesty and even enlisted into the Nigerian army.
The planned protest has garnered significant attention, with notable figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, human rights lawyer Femi Falana, and Senator Shehu Sani calling for Kanu’s release. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has also announced plans to join the protest.
The protesters are demanding Kanu’s immediate release from detention.
Critics argue that the government applies different standards in handling cases of terrorism and agitation.
Kanu’s health has reportedly deteriorated in detention, sparking concerns for his well-being. However, supporters of the protest argue that Kanu’s release could help promote national unity and address perceived marginalization.
Organizations supporting the protest, include Eastern Union, ccivil society organization that has expressed support for the protest; Ohanaeze Youth Council, that has endorsed the protest and urged President Bola Tinubu to release Kanu; National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), that will join the protest to demand Kanu’s release.
Others are Ndi Igbo World Union, an organization that has thrown its weight behind the protest, and the South East Leaders, made up of various leaders from the South East region that have expressed support for the protest.