Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to releasing the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
As reported by Politics Nigeria, speaking at the 13th memorial anniversary of the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu in Owerri on Tuesday, Ambassador Ojukwu described Kanu’s release as a strategic step toward restoring peace and order in the Southeast.
“President Tinubu recognizes the importance of releasing Nnamdi Kanu. This move will help unmask the criminal elements hiding under the guise of IPOB to perpetrate violence. I am determined to do everything necessary to support this cause,” she stated.
She further explained that the release would create a clear distinction between genuine advocates for self-determination and those fueling insecurity in the region. She also urged Ndigbo to reclaim their reputation as a peace-loving and industrious people.
“The Igbo are not known for harming their own. The release of Kanu is crucial for separating true freedom fighters from those who exploit IPOB’s name to sow chaos,” she said. “Our people face significant threats, and it is time for collective action to restore peace and prosperity to the Southeast.”
Ojukwu also condemned the frequent “sit-at-home” orders enforced by violent elements in the region, which she described as counterproductive to the ideals of self-determination and damaging to economic growth.
“Ndigbo are enterprising and resilient. We must reclaim our region and promote the values for which Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu stood,” she added.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in custody since June 2015, following his arrest by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Lagos. He faces charges of treason, terrorism, and other offences. Despite being granted bail multiple times, Kanu remains detained.
This announcement marks a significant development in addressing the longstanding security and political challenges in the Southeast.
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