Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention ‘An Open Sore on Nigeria’s Conscience’ – Atiku

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has described the continued detention of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, as “an open sore on Nigeria’s conscience”, urging the Federal Government to either release him or ensure he receives a fair trial.

In a post shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, Atiku expressed his support for the campaign led by human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, who is mobilizing Nigerians for a peaceful march to demand Kanu’s release.

“The continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains an open sore on our nation’s conscience and a stain on our belief in the rule of law,” Atiku wrote.
“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 @YeleSowore for his immediate release or due prosecution.”

The former vice president emphasized that the government’s refusal to comply with multiple court rulings in Kanu’s favor undermines public confidence in Nigeria’s judiciary and democracy.

“We fail as patriots if we allow Kanu’s case to fester as yet another wound this nation refuses to heal,” he added.

Atiku’s remarks came shortly after Sowore announced plans for a nationwide #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign and a peaceful protest march to Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, scheduled for October 20 at 7 a.m.

Sowore had earlier called on political, religious, and traditional leaders especially those from the South-East region to join the march in solidarity.

“Every governor, senator, member of the House, traditional ruler, priest, eze, Igbo person, and every Nigerian who believes in Kanu’s freedom, come out and do more than talk. I will lead this peaceful march to Aso Rock Villa,” Sowore said.

He specifically mentioned Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, former Anambra Governor Peter Obi, and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, urging them to personally participate in the protest.

In a follow-up post on Wednesday, Sowore revealed that while Abaribe acknowledged his outreach, Soludo and Otti did not respond to his calls or messages, while Obi’s team confirmed receipt of his invitation.

Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021, facing charges bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony. Despite several court rulings ordering his release, the IPOB leader remains detained a situation that has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and international observers.

VANGUARD