From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
A coalition of Igbo groups in the United States, under the aegis of Rising Sun Foundation Inc., USA, has called for global Igbo unity to fight for the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in detention for 30 months.
In a statement signed by Chief Maxwell Dede Emole, Dr. Remy Okea, Evans Nwankwo, and Benjamin Nwankwo, and made available to Daily Sun, the Foundation expressed its concern over Kanu’s continued detention.
“As he marks 30 months of unjust incarceration, it is imperative that we amplify our voices against this blatant violation of his rights, especially in light of several court orders demanding his unconditional release,” the statement read.
The group noted that the Nigerian government, under President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, has recently shown signs of a potential shift towards dialogue regarding Kanu’s release, contrasting with the treatment of other political detainees such as Chief Sunday Igboho of the Yoruba Nation, Omoyele Sowore of the Revolution Now movement, and Bello Bodejo of Miyetti Allah Kyautal Hore.
The Foundation highlighted that while figures from other ethnic groups seeking separate nations have been released, Kanu’s continued detention raises serious questions about the selective application of justice in Nigeria.
“Nnamdi Kanu remains the sole political prisoner among them, a situation that is not only perplexing but also indicative of deeper systemic issues within the Nigerian political landscape,” the statement added.
The group criticized the reluctance of Igbo political leaders, particularly governors and members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, to advocate for Kanu’s freedom, suggesting that personal political ambitions are being prioritized over the collective welfare of the Igbo people.
Reflecting on Kanu’s detention, the group stated, “His detention is not merely a personal tragedy but represents a broader struggle for the Igbo nation’s identity and future. He has become a symbol of resistance against the marginalization and oppression that we, as a people, have faced for decades.”
The Foundation called for unity and the setting aside of selfish interests for the greater good of the Igbo nation.