The Ohanaeze Ndigbo socio-cultural organization expressed that the liberation of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is likely to reduce the influence of self-proclaimed Biafra advocate Simon Ekpa and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization has expressed support for President Tinubu’s decision to consider releasing Nnamdi Kanu from detention.
According to a press release issued on Thursday and signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of the organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo disclosed that the anticipated date for Kanu’s release is December 2023.
Ohanaeze anticipates that Kanu’s release will significantly impact activities in the Southeast, relegating them to the past.
Nnamdi Kanu, known for his leadership in advocating for the secession of Biafra, has been a polarizing figure in Nigerian politics. His arrest and subsequent release have stirred discussions not only about the future of Biafra but also about the impact on regional politics. As the leader of IPOB, Kanu has amassed a considerable following, particularly among those who support the idea of an independent Biafran state.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent socio-cultural organization representing the interests of the Igbo people, has weighed in on the matter. Isiguzoro Okechukwu, the factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, asserts that the liberation of Nnamdi Kanu is likely to have ripple effects on the political landscape of the Southeast. Specifically, Okechukwu suggests that the release of Kanu may diminish the political influence of Simon Ekpa and Peter Obi.
Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed Biafra advocate, has gained attention for his vocal support of the Biafran cause. However, with Kanu’s release, there is speculation that Ekpa’s prominence might wane. The dynamics of the Biafran movement could shift as Kanu reassumes his role as its leader. It remains to be seen how Ekpa will navigate this changing landscape and whether he can maintain his influence in the face of Kanu’s return to the forefront.
A statement by the factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, Isiguzoro Okechukwu, said the release of Kanu would have significant implications for the political landscape in the Southeast.
The statement reads: “It has come to our attention that certain mischievous Igbo political elites and deviant opportunists are attempting to take undue credit for Nnamdi Kanu’s potential release.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo urges President Tinubu not to entertain any visits or demands from these individuals, as the credit for Kanu’s release should solely be attributed to him.
“We emphasise that the effects of Nnamdi Kanu’s release will gradually diminish the rising popularity of both Peter Obi and Simon Ekpa in the Southeast.
“Additionally, from a security perspective, Ekpa’s disruptive activities and terrorist tendencies in the Southeast will be consigned to the annals of history.”
Ohanaeze urges President Bola Tinubu to remain resolute in his decision-making process regarding Kanu’s release.
“We assure him that the Igbo nation stands behind him, and we trust that he will handle this matter with utmost care and consideration,” he added.
