A coalition of prominent Igbo figures has strongly criticized the continued incarceration of Nnamdi Kanu, describing it as a double standard by the Nigerian government, which they say is actively reintegrating Boko Haram militants under the amnesty program.
They accused the government of disbursing large sums of money to armed bandits in what they consider a flawed strategy to buy peace, arguing that such actions weaken national authority and endanger public safety.
In a statement issued on Monday, 7th of July, 2025, the group called for the unconditional release of Kanu, who has spent four years in detention over his advocacy for the self-determination of the Igbo people.
They insisted his demand for autonomy does not compare with the violent acts carried out by Boko Haram insurgents who have taken up arms against the state.
According to them, if the government can accommodate those responsible for killings and destruction, it has no moral ground to keep Kanu in custody.
The signatories to the statement include Ben Nwankwo and Evans Nwankwo of Ambassadors for Self-Determination USA, AVID President Syvester Onyia, and members of the Rising Sun Group, Maxwell Dede and Father Odimegwa.
Their statement reads in part:
“In an unprecedented display of hypocrisy, Nigeria’s federal government has embraced a strategy of rehabilitating and reintegrating Boko Haram members back into society.
“Meanwhile, the same government resorts to handing large sums of money to bandits in a misguided attempt to appease them, a tactic that ultimately undermines its own authority and security.
READ ALSO: FG Open to Negotiating Nnamdi Kanu’s Release – Umahi
“In stark contrast, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, a courageous freedom fighter advocating for self-determination, remains unjustly incarcerated for standing up for his rights and those of his people.
“The world must not turn a blind eye to this egregious injustice. Mazi Kanu’s continued imprisonment is fueling a global storm of outrage that demands immediate attention.
“The recent indictment of the Kenyan government by the global community for its role in the illegal abduction of Mazi Kanu on Kenyan soil is commendable, but it must be noted that this is merely the first step toward justice.
“We call for the identification and accountability of all Nigerian and Kenyan operatives involved in this crime.
“Until justice is served, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu must be released immediately and unconditionally.
“Our collective voice will not be silenced. We stand firmly for justice, dignity, and the right to self-determination for all.”