Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu will authorize the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Speaking at the 13th memorial anniversary of the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu in Owerri, she emphasized that Kanu’s release is critical to addressing the ongoing violence and insecurity in Nigeria’s Southeast region.
Ambassador Ojukwu highlighted that Kanu’s prolonged detention has been exploited by criminal elements operating under the guise of IPOB to perpetrate violence and chaos in the region. She urged President Tinubu to take decisive action, arguing that Kanu’s freedom would help distinguish legitimate activists from those using the situation to further criminal activities.
The Southeast has been plagued by violence and insecurity, leading to significant displacement of residents. Many communities have been abandoned, with kidnappings and other forms of criminality becoming rampant. Ambassador Ojukwu lamented the state of the region, contrasting it with the vision of unity and peace championed by the late Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu.
The minister also criticized the imposition of “sit-at-home” orders in the Southeast, which have disrupted economic activities and further deepened the region’s challenges. She emphasized the need for collective efforts to reclaim the Southeast from criminality and restore peace and stability.
The call for Kanu’s release adds to ongoing discussions about resolving the Southeast’s security crisis and addressing the grievances that have fueled separatist movements. While the Nigerian government has yet to make a decision on the matter, Ambassador Ojukwu’s remarks reflect a growing push for political solutions to restore order in the region.
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