Supporters of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, have announced plans to stage a major protest in Aba, Abia State, today, demanding his release from custody.
The demonstration, scheduled for Thursday, March 12, 2026, is being organised by a coalition known as the Coalition of Lovers of Freedom. The group has tagged the planned rally the “One Million March,” calling on supporters from across the South-East and beyond to converge on Aba to press for Kanu’s freedom.
According to a flyer obtained on Wednesday, the organisers urged participants to assemble peacefully and show solidarity in what they described as a collective demand for justice and the release of the IPOB leader.
Kanu, who heads the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, has remained at the centre of political and legal controversies since his arrest and continued trial by Nigerian authorities. His supporters have repeatedly staged demonstrations and campaigns calling for his release, insisting that his detention is unjustified.
Ahead of the planned march, a former member of the Abia State House of Assembly, Obinna Ichita, appealed to participants to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid actions that could lead to violence or disruption.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Ichita emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and order during the protest, noting that emotions surrounding Kanu’s situation remain high among his supporters.
“As Aba citizens prepare to gather tomorrow, I appeal to all participants to act with responsibility, discipline and civility,” he said.
Ichita, who described himself as a proud indigene of Aba, said his appeal was motivated by ongoing efforts by leaders and stakeholders seeking a peaceful and constructive resolution to the issues surrounding Kanu’s detention.
He stressed that while supporters may feel strongly about the matter, the protest must be carried out in a manner that respects lives, property and the rule of law.
“While emotions run high around Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, our strength lies in wisdom, unity and respect for life, property and the rule of law,” Ichita added.
The former lawmaker further encouraged demonstrators to avoid any actions capable of escalating tensions or undermining the peaceful message the protest seeks to convey.
Security analysts have noted that Aba, a major commercial hub in Abia State, has in the past witnessed demonstrations linked to agitation for Kanu’s release. Authorities have often deployed security personnel during such gatherings to maintain order and prevent possible breakdown of law and order.
As of Wednesday night, there had been no official statement from security agencies on the specific measures to be put in place for the planned protest. However, observers expect security presence in strategic areas of the city as residents and supporters prepare for the march.
The organisers of the “One Million March” maintain that the protest is intended to be peaceful and aimed solely at drawing attention to their demand for the release of Kanu.
With supporters mobilising across communities in the South-East, the event is expected to draw significant attention as participants gather in Aba to express their views on the ongoing legal battle involving the IPOB leader.
