By Nicholas Walter
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs (State), Bianca Ojukwu, has expressed her belief that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may soon release Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Ojukwu made her comments during the 13th memorial anniversary of her late husband, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, a prominent figure in Nigerian history.
Ojukwu emphasized the critical role Kanu’s release could play in restoring peace and distinguishing genuine freedom fighters from those exploiting IPOB’s name to sow violence in the Southeast. “The president understands that Kanu’s release is vital to addressing the insecurity plaguing the Southeast region,” Ojukwu stated. She added that the move could expose those responsible for kidnappings and violence, which have caused many residents to flee their homes
Regional Impact of Kanu’s Detention
The prolonged detention of Nnamdi Kanu has significantly impacted the economic and social stability of the Southeast. Frequent sit-at-home protests, initiated to demand Kanu’s release, have disrupted businesses, with billions of naira reportedly lost weekly.
Religious leaders, including members of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, have also called for Kanu’s release, arguing it would promote economic recovery and reduce insecurity. The bishops cited Kanu’s situation as a key factor behind the unrest and urged the government to act swiftly.
Bianca Ojukwu lamented the growing fear among Southeastern Nigerians in the diaspora, many of whom avoid returning home due to fears of abduction. “Kidnappings by criminals posing as freedom fighters have paralyzed the region,” she remarked, urging collective action to reclaim the Southeast from those perpetuating violence.
The topic of Kanu’s release has drawn mixed reactions from Nigerians, with debates heating up on social media. Critics question Tinubu’s ability to navigate the delicate political terrain required to release Kanu without exacerbating tensions. However, supporters of Ojukwu’s remarks believe that releasing Kanu could foster trust and dialogue between the federal government and the Southeast.
While President Tinubu has not yet issued an official statement on this matter, his administration faces mounting pressure to address it. Political observers note that resolving the Kanu issue could influence Tinubu’s standing in the region, which remains critical to Nigeria’s unity and stability.
