Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly declared his support for activist Omoyele Sowore’s nationwide campaign demanding the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been detained since 2021.
In a statement posted on his official social media accounts, Atiku condemned the continued detention of Kanu despite multiple court orders granting him bail, describing it as “an open sore on our nation’s conscience and a stain on our belief in the rule of law.” He emphasized that defying judicial rulings constitutes “an abuse of power and an assault on justice.”
Atiku expressed full support for Sowore’s peaceful campaign, which aims to mobilize political, religious, and traditional leaders—especially from the South-East—to march to Aso Rock Villa.
Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and former presidential candidate, announced the campaign earlier this week, calling on prominent figures including Peter Obi, Governors Charles Soludo and Alex Otti, and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe to join the movement.
Atiku warned that allowing Kanu’s case to linger would “deepen national wounds” and undermine Nigeria’s democratic credibility.
Kanu has been held by the Department of State Services (DSS) since his extradition from Kenya in June 2021. He faces charges of terrorism and treasonable felony.
Sowore’s campaign is framed as a “peaceful, legal, and visible” demonstration, with plans for a coordinated march to the presidential villa. He has urged Nigerians from all walks of life to participate, stating, “Time for action is now.”