The Igbo Political Network (IPN), a leading socio-political organization in southeastern Nigeria, has joined growing calls for the immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), citing his deteriorating health and prolonged detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Speaking in Abakaliki, IPN President Chief Alex Okemiri condemned the continued incarceration of Kanu despite multiple court rulings ordering his release. He described the situation as “a grave injustice and a threat to human dignity,” warning that the government’s inaction could have dire consequences.
“The honest truth is that the time to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has come,” Okemiri stated. “It smacks of wickedness to continue to detain him even when competent courts have ordered his release. We are no longer begging for his freedom — he must be allowed to go.”
Reports from legal representatives and family members indicate that Kanu’s health has worsened significantly while in DSS custody. Civil society groups and human rights advocates have expressed alarm over the lack of access to adequate medical care, warning that his condition could become life-threatening.
IPN emphasized that the Nigerian government must act swiftly to prevent a humanitarian crisis and uphold the rule of law.
In a dramatic cultural appeal, IPN invoked Amadioha — the Igbo god of thunder — to strike those responsible for Kanu’s continued detention if he is not released within seven days. The group said this symbolic act reflects the depth of public anger and spiritual anguish felt across Igbo communities.“This is no longer a political issue. It is a moral and spiritual one,” Okemiri added.
Kanu has been given until November 5 to respond to terrorism charges or waive his right to do so, according to Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court. Kanu maintains that his detention is illegal and that the charges against him lack merit.