The Igbo communities in Canada have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order the immediate and unconditional release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, citing his worsening health condition and the rising insecurity across the Southeast region of Nigeria.
In a press statement signed by the President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Canada, Chief Dr. Anicetus Nwizundu (Okanga Ogadagidi), the group expressed deep concern that Kanu has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) for over four years despite repeated appeals for his freedom.
“We, the Igbo people living in Canada, stand united in calling upon the Federal Government of Nigeria to intervene compassionately in this matter and facilitate the unconditional release of our brother, Nnamdi Kanu,” the statement read.
Chief Nwizundu emphasized that Kanu’s health condition has significantly deteriorated, as confirmed by several medical experts, including cardiologists who have examined him during hospital visits. He warned that any further delay in his release could pose a grave danger to his life.
“We implore the Federal Government to act swiftly to release him from custody before it’s too late,” he urged.
According to the statement, Nnamdi Kanu’s incarceration stems from his continuous advocacy against the marginalization of the Igbo people within the Nigerian federation. Chief Nwizundu stressed that the Igbo community is not seeking confrontation but simply demanding fairness, justice, and equal treatment.
“The Igbo do not seek trouble; they yearn for recognition, equality, and peace as Nigerians. Yet, they are treated as second-class citizens in their own country,” he lamented.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Canada president also expressed alarm over the worsening insecurity in the Southeast, describing it as “terrifying and disheartening.”
“There is no safety in Igboland today. One cannot travel without fear, nor sleep peacefully at night owing to the insecurity pervasive across various parts of our land,” he said.
The group believes that releasing Nnamdi Kanu would help restore calm, unity, and peace in the region, paving the way for meaningful development.
“With his release, we envision correction of many wrongs afflicting our homeland, paving the way for total peace,” Chief Nwizundu concluded.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Canada joins a growing list of voices — both within and outside Nigeria — calling for a political solution to the prolonged detention of the IPOB leader.
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