The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has promised that he would be released from detention soon, asserting that he was certain of being released before April 2025 elapses, after four years in detention. Kanu made this while he was receiving a visit from the President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA), Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, in the Department of State Services (DSS) Abuja centre where he has been detained.
In a statement made after the visit, Ezenekwe noted that Kanu seemed cheerful and in good spirits, considering his prolonged detention. He further stated that Kanu had even gained weight, surprising many as they had expected him to look visibly traumatized by his ordeal. On the visit, Kanu reasserted his uncompromising commitment to the struggle for self-determination, once again emphasizing the call for a referendum to the Igbo people.
He once more makes it clear that his only “offense” is urging the region to wake up from sleep with no apologies for doing so.
Kanu also decried the lack of good leadership among the Igbo, contending that such a deficiency had caused the voice of the region to grow weak at the time of its need. Despite the drama, Kanu was reportedly hopeful about his lawyers and his release from custody in no distant future.
The statement reads: “Today at the DSS headquarters in Abuja, I had the honor of visiting Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). During our discussion, he appeared healthier and more relaxed and reaffirmed his resilience despite his current circumstances.
“He called for a referendum, describing it as a pivotal step towards self-determination, and reiterated his firm belief that he has committed no offense other than urging our people to awake from their slumber.
“He communicated a strong message of self-assurance, noting that he is taking his prescribed medications and remains in good spirits.
“More significantly, he expressed disappointment at the apparent leadership vacuum within the Igbo community—a neglect that has allowed our people’s voice to fade at a critical moment.
“Kanu expressed unwavering confidence in his legal team and his hope for release by the end of April 2025. This resonated as a powerful testament to his dedication and fortitude.”
