The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has reportedly voiced concerns that ongoing protests centered on the continued detention of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, are part of a calculated move to destabilize the government of President Bola Tinubu.
The group distanced itself along with South-East governors and Ministers from the region from the planned October 20, 2025, nationwide protest calling for the unconditional release of the detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday by the factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Chief Chinyereze Thompson Ohia, National Spokesperson, Ohanaeze condemned what it described as the “Sowore–Atiku-orchestrated protests”, warning that the move could plunge the country into another round of chaos.
According to the statement, Ohanaeze, in collaboration with South-East political leaders, reaffirmed its “grave sense of responsibility and profound commitment to the well-being of the zone and the stability of Nigeria.”
“We view this purported demonstration with extreme suspicion and firmly believe it to be a thinly veiled attempt at fomenting unrest, destabilizing the government of President Bola Tinubu, and exploiting the legitimate concerns of Ndigbo for nefarious political ends,” the group stated.
The organisation alleged that credible intelligence and careful analysis had revealed that the planned protest was a “cynical ploy” designed to recreate the EndSARS riots, using Kanu’s detention as a cover to undermine the present administration.
It further claimed that the scheme was being funded by elements associated with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his allies, who allegedly intend to manipulate genuine Igbo sentiments for political advantage.
“This is nothing but an Atiku–Sowore booby trap. The sudden and unsolicited display of affection for Igbo causes by individuals previously indifferent or even hostile to our community raises significant red flags,” the statement added.
Ohanaeze, while reaffirming its support for peaceful and lawful advocacy, maintained that the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu must be pursued through political dialogue and judicial processes, not street protests.
“We vehemently denounce any attempt by politicians with a history of acting against Igbo interests to exploit Kanu’s situation for their personal gain. Ndigbo must not be used as pawns in any political game orchestrated by Atiku Abubakar and his allies,” it declared.
The group warned that participation in the protest could jeopardise ongoing judicial proceedings and negotiations led by Hon. Obi Aguocha’s team, which are reportedly working toward a political resolution.
Ohanaeze also cited security concerns, cautioning that the planned demonstration could degenerate into violence similar to the EndSARS unrest, endangering lives, property, and critical infrastructure.
“We are deeply concerned that the planned protests and riots will endanger the lives and property of Nigerians. The potential for widespread violence, looting, and destruction cannot be ignored,” it warned.
The group, therefore, urged Ndigbo and all Nigerians to shun the protest and remain committed to lawful and diplomatic means of resolving the Kanu issue.
