‘The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has reiterated that his release should be based strictly on adherence to the rule of law and not as an act of mercy or pardon.
In a statement issued by his legal counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, following a visit to Kanu, he emphasized that his continued detention is unconstitutional, citing existing judgments by the Federal High Court of Nigeria and international tribunal decisions declaring his detention unlawful.
Kanu firmly instructed his legal team to clarify that his release should not be perceived as an act of executive clemency or amnesty but rather as compliance with court rulings. He noted that the Nigerian Attorney-General of the Federation, under presidential directive, has the constitutional power to discontinue his prosecution.
Rejecting calls for pardon, Kanu insisted that self-determination—the core issue in his case—is a fundamental right recognized by Nigerian law and international legal frameworks, including those of the United Nations, the United Kingdom, and Kenya. He expressed concern that pleading for clemency could set a dangerous precedent, allowing the government and judiciary to sidestep legal obligations.
Kanu urged those advocating for his release to adopt the approach taken by groups such as Afenifere, Ohaneze, the World Igbo Congress (WIC), the American Military Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), and the international community—who assert that he has committed no crime and should be freed unconditionally.
He further argued that the Nigerian government, which orchestrated his extraordinary rendition, should instead express contrition for violating international law and common law principles.
In conclusion, Kanu expressed gratitude to individuals and organizations working towards the restoration of peace and security in Igboland.
The legal team, led by Aloy Ejimakor, maintains that Kanu’s immediate and unconditional release is not a matter of political negotiation but of strict compliance with the rule of law, justice, and Nigeria’s constitutional obligations.
