Biafra: Nigeria will sink if Nnamdi Kanu remains in detention – IPOB warns

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a stern warning regarding the ongoing detention of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, emphasizing that such actions could have grave implications for Nigeria’s future.

The warning came in response to a call by the Coalition of Northern Group (CNG), urging President Bola Tinubu not to release Kanu. IPOB’s spokesman, Emma Powerful, criticized the Northern coalition, labeling their stance as clueless and demanding Kanu’s immediate release, citing a previous Appeal Court ruling that acquitted him. This report highlights the tensions surrounding Kanu’s detention and the potential ramifications if his release is not addressed promptly.

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, has been a central figure in the struggle for self-determination of the Biafran region. His detention has been a contentious issue, and there have been calls from various quarters demanding his release.

IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, condemned the Coalition of Northern Group’s call to retain Kanu in detention. He emphasized that an Abuja Appeal Court had already discharged and acquitted Kanu, which makes his continued detention a violation of both local and international laws. Powerful urged President Bola Tinubu to heed the calls of Nigerians and release the IPOB leader in the interest of Nigeria’s stability.

He said, “IPOB, as a lawful and peaceful movement, will legally sink Nigeria locally and internationally if they refuse to be a democratic country and release our leader, and call for a United Nation’s supervised referendum.”

Powerful warned that failure to release Nnamdi Kanu and adhere to the court rulings could have severe consequences for Nigeria. He stated that IPOB, as a lawful and peaceful movement, is prepared to escalate the matter both locally and internationally, potentially leading to further challenges for the nation. He also called for a United Nations-supervised referendum, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

In light of the Abuja Appeal Court’s ruling and the potential repercussions of ignoring it, Emma Powerful implored the Nigerian government to act responsibly and release Kanu unconditionally. He further emphasized that the government should honor the compensation rulings made by both the Abuja Court of Appeal and Umuahia High Court. Compliance with these court decisions, according to IPOB, is essential to prevent Nigeria from sinking into further turmoil.