Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has disclosed that Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is hopeful that he will be released from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) by April 2025.
Ezenekwe made this statement after a visit to Kanu at the DSS headquarters in Abuja on April 2, 2025. During the visit, Kanu expressed his disappointment over the lack of strong Igbo leadership, stressing the urgent need for renewed advocacy for the region’s interests and self-determination.
Despite his continued detention, Kanu appeared healthy, having gained weight and remained in high spirits. He reaffirmed his confidence in his legal team and expressed hope that the courts would grant him freedom in the near future.
However, Kanu also lamented the absence of significant voices advocating for the welfare and rights of the Igbo people, a concern he shared with Ezenekwe. He noted that the Igbo community has been underserved by its leaders, particularly in terms of defending the cause of the people.
A Call for Renewed Leadership and Advocacy
Kanu also voiced concern over the historical neglect of Igbo freedom fighters, particularly citing the case of Ralph Uwazurike, a prominent figure in the pro-Biafra movement. Kanu emphasized that Uwazurike, despite his good intentions, had been abandoned by his own people during his imprisonment, a fate Kanu fears could weaken the broader struggle for self-determination.
In his statement, Ezenekwe expressed Kanu’s frustration with the perceived leadership vacuum within the Igbo community. He highlighted how such neglect has allowed the Igbo voice to fade at a crucial time, especially as Nigeria continues to face political and social tensions. Kanu’s sentiments evoked memories of past struggles and served as a call to action for more active and unified leadership.
An Appeal for Presidential Intervention
In light of Kanu’s remarks and his continued detention, Ezenekwe appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to intervene in Kanu’s case. He reminded the president of his historical role in the pro-democracy movement and called on him to demonstrate the political will to secure Kanu’s release.
Ezenekwe characterized Kanu’s detention as a symbol of political repression, rather than a fair legal process. He urged President Tinubu to reflect on his own struggles for democracy and justice, and to take decisive action in ensuring that Kanu’s rights are upheld.
Ezenekwe concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity and collective action within the Igbo community, urging them not to forsake their freedom fighters who have paved the way for the region’s liberation.
“Let this moment serve as a turning point—a renewal of our collective determination to safeguard the rights, dignity, and future of the Igbo people,” he said.
