Ohanaeze demands Kanu release, urging the federal government to free the IPOB leader while emphasising unity, culture, and accountability
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, on Thursday in Enugu called for the immediate release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, declaring that his continued incarceration symbolically affects the entire Igbo nation.
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The demand was made during the Ohanaeze Imeobi and General Assembly held at the organisation’s national secretariat, where President General, Chief Senator John Azuta-Mbata, addressed delegates and stakeholders in a firm and impassioned tone.
Azuta-Mbata stated that the incarceration of Kanu in Sokoto prison following his conviction for treason represents, in his words, the collective confinement of the Igbo people.
He emphasised that the group’s position reflects widespread sentiment among Ndigbo, describing Kanu’s release as a minimum and non negotiable demand in ongoing national discussions.
He cautioned against what he described as attempts by some political actors to influence the federal government with promises of electoral support without addressing core grievances.
According to him, meaningful dialogue and political engagement must begin with the resolution of the Kanu matter.
The Ohanaeze leader also welcomed discussions around additional state creation, describing it as a positive development that could enhance representation and governance within the federation.
Beyond political concerns, Azuta-Mbata used the platform to address issues of identity, culture, and conduct among Ndigbo.
He urged Igbo citizens to remain law abiding in all parts of the country and abroad, stressing the importance of maintaining values that reflect the traditions of their communities.
He cautioned that behaviour in host communities should reflect discipline and respect, noting that actions taken outside Igbo land should align with the cultural principles upheld at home.
His remarks underscored the need for responsible representation of the Igbo identity across Nigeria and in the diaspora.
A significant part of his address focused on the preservation of Igbo language and culture, which he described as the foundation of identity and unity among the people.
He referenced concerns raised by international bodies, including a report by UNESCO indicating that the Igbo language is endangered, describing the situation as a call to urgent action.
In response, Ohanaeze has begun initiatives to promote the language through academic support and educational programmes.
These include endowing professorial chairs in Igbo language and culture at selected universities, as well as plans to offer scholarships to students pursuing related studies.
The organisation also announced efforts to expand access to Igbo language learning through digital platforms, including online programmes targeted at members of the diaspora and younger generations seeking to reconnect with their heritage.
Azuta-Mbata further urged Igbo political leaders to demonstrate accountability, vision, and integrity in their leadership roles.
He stressed that the public is closely observing their actions and that history will ultimately judge their contributions to the development of the region.
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The meeting concluded with a renewed call for unity, cultural preservation, and constructive engagement with national issues, as Ohanaeze reiterated its commitment to advocating for the interests of Ndigbo within the broader Nigerian federation.
