Activist Omoyele Sowore has called on the Igbo people in Lagos, Abuja, and throughout Igbo land to close their shops on October 20, 2025, and participate in a peaceful march to Aso Rock to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Sowore emphasized that taking one day off will not significantly harm their businesses and urged them to support Kanu’s freedom.

Sowore’s appeal comes after he challenged South-East leaders, including Peter Obi, Anambra Governor Charles Soludo, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, and Abia Governor Alex Otti, to join the march. He stressed that it is time for action rather than empty rhetoric and pledged to lead the peaceful protest himself.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed his support for Sowore’s campaign, stating that Kanu’s detention is “an open sore on our nation’s conscience” and an affront to justice and the rule of law. Ralph Uwazuruike, leader of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), has also backed Sowore’s call, describing Kanu’s detention as a symbol of the systemic marginalization of the Igbo nation.

Kanu has been in detention since June 2021, facing charges related to terrorism and treasonable felony. His trial has been adjourned to October 8, pending a report on his health from the Nigerian Medical Association.