The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, revealed on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu has committed to the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Ojukwu made the announcement during the 13th memorial anniversary of her late father, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, in Owerri. She emphasized that the release of Kanu would play a pivotal role in exposing criminal elements hiding behind IPOB’s cause, contributing to unrest in the Southeast region.
“President Tinubu understands the importance of Kanu’s release. It will help uncover the individuals responsible for the violence and bring back peace and order to the region. I will do whatever it takes to ensure that this request is granted,” Ojukwu said, expressing confidence in the President’s resolve to take this step.
The ambassador stressed that the release of Kanu would separate genuine freedom fighters from those exploiting the situation for personal gain. She also reaffirmed that the Igbo people are peace-loving and are committed to the well-being of their community.
Ojukwu further condemned the violent “sit-at-home” orders imposed in the Southeast, arguing that they are counterproductive and obstruct economic activities in the region. She called for collective action to reclaim the region from insecurity and criminality, reaffirming the need to honor the ideals of Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu.
Kanu has been in detention since his repatriation from Kenya, and his release is seen as a significant move in addressing the ongoing unrest in the Southeast.
