The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is once again demanding the unconditional release of their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The group's spokesperson, Emma Powerful, has stated that Kanu needs urgent medical attention and that his health is deteriorating rapidly in solitary confinement. Powerful has called on the Buhari-led Presidency to obey the court order and release Kanu so that he can receive proper medical examination and treatment.
IPOB has also accused the government of torturing Kanu through unjust and coercive means, but stated that this will not weaken his determination or that of the group to demand for Biafra independence. The group has warned that the Nigerian government and its supporters should understand that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is a living legend that Biafrans will not trade for anything in this world. The group has also issued a warning that failure to release Kanu unconditionally as ordered by the courts will lead to dire consequences.
In its statement, IPOB has reiterated its commitment to the Biafra cause, stating that the demand for independence is not negotiable. The group has also called on the international community to intervene in the matter and put pressure on the Nigerian government to release Kanu.
It will be recalled that Nnamdi Kanu was arrested and detained by the Nigerian authorities in June 2021 and has been in custody ever since. He is facing charges bordering on terrorism, treasonable felony, and illegal possession of firearms, among others. Kanu's detention has sparked protests and demonstrations by IPOB members and sympathizers, who have been demanding his release. The Nigerian government has, however, insisted that Kanu's detention is lawful and that he is being held in accordance with due process.
