A South-East traditional ruler has called for the release of detained separatist leader, Nnamdi Kanu, urging the Federal Government to either free him or repatriate him to Kenya, where he was reportedly apprehended before being returned to Nigeria.
Securitynewsalert.com reports that the monarch made the remarks during an interview on ARISE News, expressing concern over growing discontent among youths in the South-East and warning that the continued detention of Kanu could further deepen mistrust between the region and the Federal Government.
According to the monarch, there are also ongoing plans to honour Yoruba nation agitator Sunday Igboho, whom he described as Kanu’s counterpart in the South-West agitation movement. He noted that many young people in the South-East increasingly view their leaders as ineffective and compromised.
“The youths in the Southeast see us as sell-outs. When we come to Abuja, they think we come to collect money and keep quiet on these issues,” the monarch said. “Mr President should do something about Nnamdi Kanu. We cannot make progress in this country if we don’t tell ourselves the whole truth.”
Kanu, leader of the proscribed separatist group, Indigenous People of Biafra, has been in the custody of Nigerian authorities following his controversial arrest and extradition in 2021. Nigerian officials have maintained that Kanu faces charges bordering on terrorism, treasonable felony, and incitement, allegations his legal team and supporters have repeatedly challenged.
The circumstances surrounding Kanu’s arrest have remained contentious, with his lawyers alleging that he was unlawfully renditioned from Kenya to Nigeria, claims that have sparked legal and diplomatic debates. The Nigerian government, however, has consistently insisted that due process was followed in bringing him back to face trial.
Kanu’s detention has continued to generate tension across the South-East, where sit-at-home protests and security concerns have periodically disrupted economic and social activities. Various political, traditional, and civil society leaders have repeatedly called for dialogue and political solutions to address the grievances fueling separatist agitation.
Similarly, Sunday Igboho, a prominent advocate for Yoruba self-determination, has also faced legal battles linked to separatist activities, reflecting broader regional agitation movements across southern Nigeria.
Observers say the monarch’s latest comments highlight ongoing calls from regional leaders urging the Federal Government to adopt reconciliation measures as part of efforts to address insecurity, restore public confidence, and promote national unity.
