The Abia State House of Assembly has announced plans to embark on a peaceful march to Abuja to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The decision followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Deputy Speaker Austin Mmeregini during plenary on Tuesday. Lawmakers expressed growing concern about Kanu’s health and the need for the Federal Government to comply with existing court orders granting him bail.
In solidarity with Governor Alex Otti and other South-East leaders, the Assembly urged President Bola Tinubu to consider Kanu’s release on medical and humanitarian grounds. Lawmakers also appealed to National Assembly members from the South-East and to Ohanaeze Ndigbo to intensify advocacy for his freedom.
Mmeregini, representing Umuahia East Constituency, emphasized that Kanu’s continued detention undermines peace-building efforts across the region. He warned that failure to release Kanu could further heighten tension and insecurity in the South-East.
The member representing Ikwuano Constituency, Isiehi Boniface, proposed that the Abia Assembly visit the National Assembly in Abuja to meet with the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, followed by a joint press briefing to push for federal intervention. Similarly, Kalu Nwoke from Ohafia South highlighted that prolonged unrest in his constituency was tied to Kanu’s detention.
Speaker Emmanuel Emeruwa condemned the Federal Government’s disregard for the court order granting Kanu bail, stating that “Nigeria appears to be operating two systems of justice.” He urged the President to “show mercy” and allow Kanu to access medical care, stressing that “it would be of no use for him to die in detention.”
The planned march, according to Assembly members, aims to send a strong yet peaceful message to the Federal Government and to reaffirm the region’s commitment to justice, peace, and the rule of law. The lawmakers believe that releasing Kanu could help reduce agitation, foster dialogue, and promote stability across the South-East.
Meanwhile, the Assembly also deliberated on reports of property destruction belonging to Igbo indigenes in Lagos. Nnamdi Ibekwe, representing Bende North, called for urgent intervention from the Presidency and the National Assembly to ensure protection of citizens’ rights and properties across the federation.
The Abia Assembly’s planned peaceful march is expected to draw attention to both the humanitarian and national security implications of Kanu’s prolonged detention, with hopes of prompting renewed dialogue between the Federal Government and South-East stakeholders.
