April 03, (THEWILL) – Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has expressed concern over what he described as a leadership vacuum in Igboland, lamenting the absence of strong advocacy for the region’s interests.
Kanu made the remark on Wednesday during a meeting with the President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA), FCT, Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, at the headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja.
The embattled separatist leader, who has been in DSS custody since June 27, 2021, following his controversial extradition from Kenya, is facing a seven-count amended charge bordering on treason and terrorism.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Ezenekwe provided details of his interaction with Kanu, noting that despite his prolonged incarceration, the IPOB leader appeared in good health, had gained weight, and remained optimistic about his legal battle.
“Yesterday, Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 1:30 pm, I had the privilege of visiting Nnamdi Kanu at the DSS facility in Abuja.
“Our discussion took place against the backdrop of growing political tensions and the continued marginalization of Ndigbo. Kanu appeared healthier and more composed, affirming that he is taking his prescribed medications and maintaining a positive outlook despite his circumstances,” the statement read.
Ezenekwe said Kanu was particularly dismayed by what he described as an ongoing leadership failure within the Igbo community, warning that it has left the people without a strong voice at a critical time.
“He recalled how past freedom fighters, such as Ralph Uwazurike, were abandoned by the very people they fought for. He stressed that history must not repeat itself and that the Igbo nation must rally behind its defenders,” Ezenekwe stated.
The IPOB leader also reaffirmed his long-standing demand for a referendum, insisting that his only “offense” was calling on his people to wake up and demand their rights.
Kanu reportedly expressed strong confidence in his legal team and voiced optimism that he would regain his freedom before the end of April 2025.
“As our conversation drew to a close, I was deeply moved by his resilience. He remains unwavering in his belief that justice will prevail,” Ezenekwe added.
Ezenekwe used the opportunity to appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to demonstrate the same democratic principles he once fought for by facilitating Kanu’s release.
“I call on President Tinubu to act with the spirit of justice and democracy. The continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu is an injustice that must be addressed. His freedom would mark a significant step towards reconciliation and national unity,” he said.
Kanu’s detention remains a highly contentious issue, with renewed calls from various quarters for a political solution to the lingering crisis.
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