By Tony Ezike
Renowned political figure and former Anambra State Governorship Aspirant, Ike Oligbo, has made a passionate appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in detention since 2021. This renewed call comes as Nigeria grapples with widespread economic hardship and growing insecurity, particularly in the South-East region.
In a statement issued to the press, Oligbo, an influential business mogul and advocate for justice, highlighted the potential dangers of Nnamdi Kanu’s prolonged detention, warning that it could further destabilize the country. He emphasized that the Eastern region often feels marginalized in the Nigerian political structure, and keeping Kanu in detention only deepens feelings of bitterness and alienation among the youth.
“The continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu serves no purpose other than to foment resentment and anger, particularly among the younger generation in Eastern Nigeria,” Oligbo stated. “The Federal Government must rise above intimidation and call the bluff of those issuing threats over Kanu’s release. Justice demands fairness, and the charges against Kanu have proven difficult to substantiate. Keeping him detained any longer is unwarranted and unjust.”
Oligbo also drew attention to the dire economic situation in the country, stating that millions of Nigerians are facing untold hardships due to inflation and a dwindling economy. He argued that this is the wrong time for political gamesmanship, especially when it involves a matter as sensitive as Kanu’s welfare and the unity of the nation.
“Amidst the current economic hardship, this is not the time to play politics with people’s lives. The government must demonstrate leadership by taking decisive actions that prioritize national unity and progress. Releasing Nnamdi Kanu is a step towards healing and reconciliation,” Oligbo concluded.
His call adds to the growing pressure on the Federal Government to adopt a more reconciliatory approach to the South-East crisis, with many advocating dialogue as a solution to the region’s persistent insecurity.
