The family of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has voiced criticism against political leaders in the South-East for their perceived failure to engage with President Bola Tinubu in securing Kanu’s release.
Kanu, who has been in detention since June 29, 2021, saw his recent bail application declined by Justice Binta Nyako on Tuesday.
In a statement released on Thursday on behalf of the family, Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel, questioned why Igbo political leaders had not taken steps to discuss Kanu’s release with Tinubu almost a year into the president’s tenure.
Emmanuel raised concerns about the apparent apathy of Igbo political leaders towards engaging the President on Kanu’s release, suggesting that some individuals may be benefiting from Kanu’s continued incarceration.
He alleged that Kanu’s detention was linked to interests benefiting from the insecurity in the South-East and threatened to expose those behind it if action was not taken promptly.
Emmanuel also expressed disappointment over Justice Nyako’s refusal to grant bail to Kanu, questioning whether the trial judge had thoroughly examined the Supreme Court judgement indicating that Kanu’s bail revocation by the Federal High Court was improper.
The family’s statement underscored growing frustration over Kanu’s prolonged detention and highlighted the perceived inaction of political leaders in addressing the issue, signalling potential repercussions if the situation remains unchanged.
