PRESS RELEASE: SOUTHEAST GOVERNORS ARE PLAYING THE OSTRICH; IGBO SUPPORT FOR TINUBU’S CONTINUITY IS CONTINGENT UPON NNAMDI KANU’S RELEASE – OHANAEZE ASSURES IGBOS AND KANU’S FAMILY – February 16, 2025

In a matter of critical importance that resonates deeply with the sentiments of our people, the Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, issues an unequivocal statement regarding the unresolved status of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the incarcerated leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The blatant inaction displayed by the Southeast Governors, who have chosen to metaphorically “play the ostrich,” is both alarming and unacceptable.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo demands an immediate cessation of this political evasion. The collective expectations of the Southeastern populace have been placed at the forefront, pressing these governors to rise to the occasion or confront the inevitable repercussions manifested through the electorate’s choice at the ballot box.

We extend our sincerest assurances to the family of Nnamdi Kanu, acknowledging their deep frustrations regarding the Southeast Governors’ failure to honor commitments made during their public meeting on July 2, 2024, in Enugu. At this well-publicized convening, the governors made a solemn pledge to engage with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in securing Kanu’s release from detention. It has come to our attention that, despite these commitments, there are alarming allegations from Kanu’s family indicating a disturbing refusal among the Southeast Governors to respond to invitations from the President to discuss Kanu’s situation. Should these allegations hold water, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will not hesitate to launch a thorough forensic investigation that seeks to uncover the reasons behind this troubling refusal.

From our analysis, it appears that the Southeast Governors exhibit a palpable nervousness that has translated into a cold-footed approach towards meaningful engagement with the Federal Government. The fear gripping them seems rooted in their apprehensions about providing assurances to President Tinubu, specifically that the aftermath of Kanu’s release will not threaten the fragile unity of Nigeria. Such trepidation appears to stem from a genuine concern regarding the political implications of Kanu’s potential release on their own re-election bids, particularly for four out of five governors, as well as on the Vice Presidential ambitions of one among their ranks.

The truth must be articulated plainly: this protracted delay can be traced to the lingering emotional turmoil these leaders harbor from the intense scrutiny faced by Senator Enyinnayah Abaribe, who stood surety for Kanu’s release in 2017. The weight of historical fears should not dictate present actions.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo vigorously condemns the Southeast Governors’ evident lack of political will and leadership resolve. Their hesitance to prioritize communal interests over personal political ambitions is intolerable. Decisive action must be taken to secure Nnamdi Kanu’s release, disavowing any imaginary fears that may endanger their hope for re-election.

In the absence of affirmative leadership from the Southeast Governors, Ohanaeze Ndigbo is prepared to employ a grassroots and indigenous approach to facilitate Kanu’s release. There is no escaping the fact that these governors appear to be stubbornly evading their responsibility to act decisively.

Moreover, it is imperative to state clearly that Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s strategic support for President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election hinges entirely upon the promise of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release from detention. We firmly believe that the insecurity challenges plaguing the Southeast can be mitigated significantly following Kanu’s liberation.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo is resolutely committed to offering itself as a possible surety, providing guarantees to President Tinubu that any arrangements made concerning Kanu’s release will align with the agreements reached to reinforce confidence and furnish the necessary assurances sought by the presidency. We are fully prepared to make personal sacrifices, including our liberties, in pursuit of Nnamdi Kanu’s release.

We earnestly implore the Igbo populace to exercise patience as we prepare the groundwork for these endeavors. It is crucial for our community to understand the complex realities underlying the delays surrounding Kanu’s situation. While the Southeast Governors hesitate to provide actionable solutions, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has assumed the mantle of leadership in this matter.

In closing, let us be clear: our unwavering support for President Tinubu is aimed at thwarting Northern conspiracies that threaten his 2027 re-election bid. In return, the reciprocal gesture from President Tinubu must be the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu for our people, the Igbo nation.

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro
Deputy President General
Ohanaeze Ndigbo