The announcement of Nnamdi Kanu’s imminent release has generated diverse reactions from various Igbo leaders and groups.
Some leaders expressed optimism, believing Kanu’s release could pave the way for healing and addressing regional security challenges.
Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu recently confirmed that President Bola Tinubu is set to release the IPOB leader soon.
Ojukwu’s statement was made during the 13th memorial of the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu in Owerri, Imo State.
She assured that Tinubu understood the significance of Kanu’s release, claiming it would help restore order in the region.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu also confirmed that strong efforts are underway to ensure Kanu’s release in the coming days.
Kalu expressed hope, urging citizens to keep praying for the realization of Kanu’s freedom, marking a key moment.
For some, Kanu’s freedom is seen as a long-awaited victory for the Biafra cause and regional peace efforts.
Many leaders hope the release could spark a broader dialogue on resolving tensions surrounding the Biafran independence push.
However, not all reactions have been positive, with some expressing skepticism, citing previous announcements that did not come to fruition.
Chief Goddy Uwazurike of Aka Ikenga expressed optimism, trusting the minister’s words, believing Tinubu would fulfill the promise soon.
In contrast, Chief Chekwas Okorie of APGA cautioned against overt excitement, emphasizing that the announcement was only an expectation.
Okorie noted that similar appeals had been made before without success, urging caution in celebrating the announcement too early.
Ugochimereze Chinedu Asuzu of Ikoro Ndigbo remarked that Kanu’s release was long overdue and should have happened earlier.
Asuzu pointed out that the failure to comply with court rulings had contributed to increasing instability in the southeast.
He stressed that releasing Kanu would differentiate true freedom fighters from those exploiting the Biafran movement for personal gain.
Comrade Igboayaka of Ohanaeze Youth Council echoed high expectations, but warned of the challenges faced by Igbo leaders in Nigeria.
He stated that the release of Nnamdi Kanu should not just be an announcement but a decisive step towards peace.
