Denge Josef Onoh, former spokesman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign in the South-East, has renewed calls for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He urged President Bola Tinubu to grant Kanu freedom on compassionate grounds, stressing that such a move would promote national healing and reduce insecurity in the region.
Onoh proposed that Kanu be released into the custody of Ambassador Iyom Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and Chief John Azuta-Mbata, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. He described the appeal as “a constructive plea on behalf of the Igbo people and the broader Nigerian family,” noting that Kanu’s detention since his “extraordinary rendition from Kenya in 2021” had worsened insecurity and emboldened criminals exploiting the separatist struggle.
“His incarceration, amid charges of terrorism and treasonable felony, has not only exacerbated insecurity but also allowed opportunistic criminals to masquerade as separatists, fuelling violence, economic sabotage, and displacement of our people,” Onoh said.
He commended Tinubu for diplomatic efforts leading to the conviction of Simon Ekpa, the Finland-based factional IPOB leader, and praised National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu for his role in the process.
According to Onoh, Kanu’s release would serve both humanitarian and strategic purposes easing tensions, attracting investment, and isolating genuine agitators from criminal elements. He urged Tinubu to exercise his constitutional prerogative of mercy, stressing that placing Kanu under Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Azuta-Mbata would ensure accountability and prevent political exploitation.
“By entrusting Mazi Kanu to these custodians, Mr President, you would preempt any risk of his release being politicised by South-East politicians eyeing 2027 polls or internal rivalries,” he said.
Onoh described Odumegwu-Ojukwu as a symbol of Igbo identity whose ministerial role positions her to bridge federal–regional divides, while highlighting Azuta-Mbata’s advocacy for equity and reconciliation. He further proposed that South-East traditional rulers, led by the Obi of Onitsha, sign an undertaking with the NSA and security agencies to reinforce safeguards.
“The time for bold, compassionate leadership is now. Releasing Mazi Kanu under these safeguards would not only quench the fires of agitation but also fortify the Renewed Hope agenda, proving that Nigeria’s unity thrives on justice, not coercion,” Onoh added.
