The premier Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has revealed its intention to engage in discussions with former Lagos State Governor and prominent political figure, President Bola Tinubu. The purpose of this meeting is to press for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President of Ohanaeze, made this announcement during a courtesy visit to the leadership of the Supreme Council of Nigeria Traditional Rulers, Southeast chapter. The visit was led by HRM Eze Iheanyichukwu Nwokenna of Abia State at his Glass House, Orji-Owerri office complex.
This move to engage with President Tinubu is primarily centered on addressing the various concerns affecting the people of the Southeast geopolitical region.
Iwuanyanwu emphasized that the push for the release of the secessionist leader from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) has become imperative due to the deteriorating security situation in the region. He expressed concern that some individuals are exploiting Nnamdi Kanu’s name and his detention to commit crimes in the region, emphasizing that these actors are motivated solely by their self-interest.
He said, “Your request and solidarity visit have reinvigorated my leadership intention to meet with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, regarding issues concerning the Igbo ethnic group, especially the urgent need to secure the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). His ongoing detention is exacerbating insecurity in the Southeast.”
Iwuanyanwu continued, “Once he is released, we can then monitor and address any individuals or groups attempting to foment insecurity or crises in Igboland by exploiting his name or detention. Some people and groups are illegitimately capitalizing on his popularity and detention to cause unnecessary disturbances and problems in the entire Southeast for their own personal gain. Peace and stability must be restored in Igboland. The immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will contribute to this goal.”
Meanwhile, Nigerian troops from Operation UDO KA II conducted clearance operations against terrorist camps in Imo and Anambra on Saturday. During these operations, a suspected terrorist was apprehended, and Improvised Explosive Device-making materials, motorcycles, stored food, and other logistical items were recovered from the camps.