Emotional Appeal: Kanu’s Family Calls On Tinubu To Grant Freedom In Memory Of Late Ohanaeze Chief

The family of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to honor the late President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, by facilitating Kanu’s release. They argue that Kanu’s freedom would serve as a fitting tribute to the late Igbo leader, who passed away in July and is scheduled to be laid to rest on November 2nd.

The family also urged South-East governors and regional leaders to come together and advocate for Kanu’s release, expressing concern that not enough has been done to secure his freedom. They believe that with the recent recusal of Justice Binta Nyako from Kanu’s trial, there is a renewed opportunity for a political solution to his case. They hope that President Tinubu will seize this moment, as he did when he granted freedom to Yoruba separatist leader, Sunday Igboho.

According to Prince Emmanuel Kanu, speaking on behalf of the family, both Justice Binta Nyako and Morgaji Bichi have hindered Kanu’s release, causing embarrassment for the current administration. He urged President Tinubu to show fairness and apply the same justice that was extended to Sunday Igboho.

The family also emphasized that the ongoing marginalization of the Igbo people in Nigerian politics must end. They called on the government to fully implement the post-Civil War “Three Rs” (Rehabilitation, Reintegration, and Restoration) to address the grievances of the Igbo community. They criticized the exclusion of the Igbo from political influence despite their economic contributions to the nation.

The Kanu family also expressed disappointment with South-East governors, accusing them of being complicit in Kanu’s prolonged detention. They questioned why the governors have not collectively worked for Kanu’s release, similar to other regions that fought for their freedom fighters.

They concluded by clarifying that Nnamdi Kanu’s activism has never been about personal gain or political ambition but rather a deep desire to address the long-standing marginalization of his people. The family urged security agencies to view Kanu’s release as an opportunity to restore peace and security in the South-East region.