…Rejects tying Kanu’s release to Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid
…Commends Umahi for easing South-East tensions, as talks progress
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has warned President Bola Tinubu against linking the potential release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to electoral support from the South-East in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze, Chief Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said while the group welcomes the President’s willingness to pursue a political resolution, Kanu’s freedom must not become a transactional tool for political gain.
“We acknowledge the President’s desire to facilitate Kanu’s release, but this must not be construed as contingent upon garnering the support of the Igbo nation for Tinubu’s re-election campaign in 2027,” the statement read.
Ohanaeze maintained that a sustainable resolution to Kanu’s prolonged detention should be rooted in meaningful dialogue rather than “political manipulation, courtroom theatrics or coercive propaganda.”
“The Igbo people are neither lawless nor uncivilised. We are a sophisticated nation, imbued with wisdom and foresight,” the group affirmed.
The organisation commended the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, for his role in easing tensions in the South-East and for encouraging discussions between Igbo leaders and the federal government.
“We recognise Senator Umahi’s role in quelling tensions and creating room for dialogue,” it stated.
Ohanaeze confirmed that conversations surrounding Kanu’s release were ongoing and expressed optimism that a peaceful resolution could soon be reached.
The group, however, issued a strong caution to individuals and groups it referred to as “Igbo crisis merchants” – those allegedly exploiting Kanu’s continued detention for personal or political advantage.
“We issue a stern warning to all groups and individuals: desist from careless vitriol, smear campaigns against the federal government, and inflammatory proclamations. The Igbo nation will hold accountable anyone whose illegitimate actions derail this critical process,” the statement noted.
In a bid to support ongoing talks, Ohanaeze called for a 90-day halt to all antagonistic remarks and provocative public statements, urging stakeholders to allow confidential political negotiations to proceed unimpeded.
“Courtroom drama alone will not suffice. The political solution lies within the President’s jurisdiction,” Isiguzoro emphasised.
Reaffirming its commitment to national unity and constructive engagement with the Tinubu administration, the group insisted that Kanu’s release “must not be politicised or used to bargain for votes.”
