Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticised the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), describing it as “an open sore on our nation’s conscience.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called for Kanu’s immediate and unconditional release, insisting that his prolonged detention constitutes a grave violation of the rule of law and the fundamental principles of justice.
Atiku said Nigeria cannot claim to uphold democratic values while disregarding court orders and constitutional rights. “The continued incarceration of Nnamdi Kanu, despite multiple court rulings ordering his release, undermines our legal system and erodes public trust in the government’s commitment to justice,” he stated.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021, following his arrest in Kenya and subsequent extradition to Nigeria. He faces multiple charges, including treasonable felony, over his activities as the leader of IPOB, which was proscribed by the Federal Government in 2017.
Atiku’s remarks come amid renewed calls from civil society groups, human rights organisations, and traditional leaders for the Federal Government to explore dialogue and political solutions to the long-standing agitation in the South-East region.
“The time has come for the government to show leadership through compassion and respect for the rule of law,” Atiku added. “Peace cannot thrive in a climate of injustice.”
The former Vice President also urged the Tinubu administration to prioritise national reconciliation and address the root causes of discontent in the South-East, warning that prolonged suppression of dissent could further deepen divisions within the country.
Atiku’s comments have reignited public debate over the handling of Kanu’s case, which has remained a flashpoint in Nigeria’s political and human rights discourse.
