The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has expressed confidence that he will be granted bail soon, stating that he believes his release will come before the end of April 2025, after spending four years in detention.
Kanu made the statement during a visit from the President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA), Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Abuja, where he is currently held.
In a press release issued after the visit, Ezenekwe shared that Kanu appeared upbeat and in good health, despite his lengthy detention. He noted that Kanu had even gained weight, surprising many who expected him to be visibly affected by his circumstances.
During the visit, Kanu reaffirmed his strong belief in the fight for self-determination, stressing the importance of a referendum for the Igbo people.
He emphasized that his only “offense” was advocating for the region to rise from its slumber, expressing no regret for his actions.
Kanu also expressed disappointment over the lack of strong leadership in the Igbo community, stating that this absence has caused the region’s voice to fade at a critical time.
Despite the challenges, Kanu was described as confident in his legal team and hopeful for his release soon.
The statement reads:
“Today at the DSS headquarters in Abuja, I had the honor of visiting Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). During our discussion, he appeared healthier and more relaxed and reaffirmed his resilience despite his current circumstances.
“He called for a referendum, describing it as a pivotal step towards self-determination, and reiterated his firm belief that he has committed no offense other than urging our people to awake from their slumber.
“He communicated a strong message of self-assurance, noting that he is taking his prescribed medications and remains in good spirits.
“More significantly, he expressed disappointment at the apparent leadership vacuum within the Igbo community-a neglect that has allowed our people’s voice to fade at a critical moment.
“Kanu expressed unwavering confidence in his legal team and his hope for release by the end of April 2025. This resonated as a powerful testament to his dedication and fortitude.”
Ezenekwe, in his statement, also called on President Bola Tinubu to take action and secure Kanu’s release.
“In light of today’s (Wednesday’s) encounter, I issue an earnest appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I call on him to draw upon the spirit of democracy and commitment to justice that defined his own struggles and to take decisive action in securing the freedom of our brother and hero, Nnamdi Kanu.”
“Let this moment serve as a turning point-a renewal of our collective determination to safeguard the rights, dignity, and future of the Igbo people,” he stated.
