Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has joined calls for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), describing his prolonged detention as a moral and legal stain on the nation.
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In a statement posted on his social media accounts on Thursday, Atiku wrote that the continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains an open sore on the nation’s conscience and a stain on Nigeria’s belief in the rule of law.
He stated: “Defying court orders that granted him bail is an abuse of power and an assault on justice. I, therefore, lend my voice in full support of the campaign led by Omoyele Sowore for his immediate release or due prosecution. We fail as patriots if we allow Kanu’s case to fester as yet another wound this nation refuses to heal.”
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his rearrest in Kenya and repatriation to Nigeria in 2021. He faces terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Despite several court rulings ordering his release, the IPOB leader remains detained, a situation that has drawn criticism from rights groups and political observers who view it as a disregard for judicial authority.
Atiku’s open support aligns with activist Omoyele Sowore’s campaign demanding Kanu’s freedom or lawful prosecution. Sowore has also announced plans for a public protest in Abuja on October 20 to press for the IPOB leader’s release.
