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The President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, has disclosed that Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is hopeful about his release from the Department of State Services (DSS) custody by April 2025.
After visiting Kanu at the DSS headquarters in Abuja, Ellis-Ezenekwe noted that Kanu expressed his frustration over the absence of strong leadership within the Igbo community, urging for renewed efforts to advocate for the region’s concerns.
He mentioned that Kanu seemed to be in good health, had gained weight, and was maintaining a positive outlook despite his detention.
Kanu reiterated his trust in his legal team and was hopeful that the judiciary would grant him freedom soon.
He voiced worries about the worsening plight of the Igbo people in Nigeria and lamented the lack of prominent advocates for their cause.
Ellis-Ezenekwe relayed Kanu’s worries about the historical neglect of Igbo freedom fighters, referencing Ralph Uwazurike, who, he claimed, had noble intentions but was abandoned by his people during his time in prison. He cautioned that such neglect might undermine the quest for self-determination.
In a statement issued the previous day, Ellis-Ezenekwe appealed to President Bola Tinubu for intervention in Kanu’s situation.
He reminded the President of his previous involvement in the pro-democracy movement and urged him to show the necessary political commitment to facilitate Kanu’s release. He asserted that Kanu’s ongoing detention symbolizes political oppression instead of justice.
The statement reads: "Yesterday, at the DSS headquarters in Abuja, I had the privilege of visiting Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), at 1:30 p.m. In an environment marked by political tension and community aspirations, our meeting underscored the urgency of our collective struggle for acknowledgment, justice, and the promotion of Igbo interests.
“During our conversation, Kanu appeared healthier and more at ease, reaffirming his strength despite his circumstances. He conveyed a strong sense of confidence, stating he is adhering to his prescribed medication and remains in good spirits.
“More importantly, he expressed dissatisfaction with the evident leadership void within the Igbo community—a neglect that has allowed our people's voice to diminish at a pivotal juncture."
