The Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has urged President Bola Tinubu to immediately release Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), describing his continued detention as unjustifiable.
The demand was made in a communiqué signed by Afenifere’s Deputy Leader, Oladipo Olaitan, following a meeting at the Isanya Ogbo residence of the group’s leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
Afenifere: Kanu’s Detention Violates His Legal Rights
Afenifere expressed concern over Kanu’s prolonged detention, arguing that his trial process has been marred by conflicting legal proceedings, raising doubts about the fairness of his trial.
“Since his abduction in 2021 and subsequent rendition to Nigeria, Nnamdi Kanu has been subjected to controversial legal proceedings in different courts. His fair trial may no longer be guaranteed in the opinion of reasonable members of the public. It is clear that Kanu is a political detainee.”
The group urged President Tinubu to release Kanu immediately in the interest of justice and national reconciliation, stating that his continued detention without trial is unjustifiable.
Concerns Over Insecurity and the Need for State Policing
Afenifere also raised alarm over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, noting that the situation has not improved under President Tinubu’s administration.
The group cited the recent warning by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, regarding the influx of bandits into the South-West, emphasizing the need for urgent action to prevent a security crisis.
“The state of insecurity remains as dire as it was under the previous administration. The federal government must take bold, positive, and ideological steps to ensure the genuine protection of lives and property.”
A Call for Restructuring and State Policing
As part of its security recommendations, Afenifere reiterated its long-standing call for restructuring, particularly advocating for the constitutional institutionalization of state policing.
“Nigeria, with its vast territory, large population, and federal structure, cannot be effectively secured with a single-command, unitary police system.”
The group urged the government to prioritize restructuring, stressing that state policing is essential for effective security management across the country.
