The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has once again raised concerns over the ongoing trial of its detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, describing the legal proceedings as “purely politically motivated” and devoid of any constitutional justification.
In a strongly worded statement released on Thursday by IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the group condemned the Federal Government’s refusal to release Kanu despite several court rulings questioning the legality of his continued detention.
There is no legal basis to keep Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in custody. His trial is not about justice—it is about political vendetta and an attempt to silence the voice of Biafra,” the statement read.
Nnamdi Kanu was first arrested in 2015 on charges of treasonable felony, inciting violence, and terrorism-related offenses following his call for the secession of Biafra from Nigeria. He was granted bail in 2017 but fled the country after his home in Abia State was raided by security forces.
He was later re-arrested in 2021 under controversial circumstances involving international cooperation, sparking debates about due process and human rights. Since then, Kanu has been held in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja, with his trial experiencing numerous delays and adjournments.
While some legal experts argue that the Federal Government is within its rights to prosecute Kanu under existing laws, others believe the prolonged detention is unconstitutional, especially after the United Nations Human Rights Council in 2022 called for his unconditional release, citing violations of international law.
Human rights lawyer, Barr. Ifeanyi Ejiofor, who represents Kanu, said:
“The continued detention of my client is a slap in the face of justice. The government is weaponizing the judiciary to achieve political ends.”
IPOB reiterated its stance on nonviolence, urging its supporters to remain calm and focused on peaceful advocacy for self-determination. However, the group warned that the continued incarceration of its leader could provoke unrest in the South-East region.
Nigeria is playing with fire. If the courts are no longer respected, what options are left for the oppressed?” IPOB queried in its statement.
As of press time, the Federal Ministry of Justice had not responded to IPOB’s latest claims. The DSS also declined comment, citing the sensitive nature of the case.
Observers worry that the controversy surrounding Kanu’s trial is further deepening distrust between the South-East and the Federal Government. The zone has witnessed increased militarization, rising youth agitation, and periodic sit-at-home protests enforced by pro-Biafra sympathizers.
Political analysts warn that without a political solution, the case may become a flashpoint in Nigeria’s already fragile national unity.
