The South-East Traditional Rulers Council has renewed its demand for the unconditional release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, lamenting that previous appeals to the Federal Government have failed to yield the desired outcome.
​The Royal Fathers expressed their deep concern in a communique issued on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, following a high-level council meeting at the Traditional Rulers Secretariat in Owerri, Imo State.
​The Council, led by the Chairman of the South-East Traditional Rulers Council, Eze E.C. Okeke, alongside state council leaders including Eze Linus Nto Mbah of Abia State and Eze Samuel Asadu of Enugu State, emphasized that past diplomatic interventions and political entreaties by Igbo leaders have yet to secure Kanu’s freedom.
The monarchs noted that Kanu’s continued detention despite several judicial interventions remains a primary source of heightened tension, economic disruption, and security challenges across the five South-East states.
Releasing the IPOB leader unconditionally, they argued, represents the most decisive step the Federal Government could take toward restoring genuine peace, stability, and public confidence in the region.
​Addressing the internal governance and administration of the traditional institution, the Council insisted on strictly adhering to the established zoning principles by declaring that the leadership of the South-East Traditional Rulers Council must now rotate to Abia State.
​The royal fathers also focused heavily on civic engagement, issuing a passionate appeal to citizens across the South-East to actively participate in voter registration and upcoming electoral cycles. They stressed that a massive voter turnout is essential to ensure democratic accountability and strong political representation for the region moving forward.
​Concluding the executive session, the traditional leaders extended their appreciation to Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for hosting the summit, while thanking the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers and host communities for their hospitality.
They further commended the collective support and cooperation of all five South-East state governors in furthering regional harmony and infrastructural development.
