On Thursday, the Igbo sociocultural organization known as Anyi-Anyi issued an appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to unconditionally release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. The call comes shortly after Kanu was allowed to consult with his medical doctor.
Anyi-Anyi believes that the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu would play a crucial role in promoting national unity, aligning with the organization’s expectations.
The statement, signed by Anthony Okolo, the National Leader of Anyi-Anyi, emphasized that granting Kanu’s unconditional release would enable him to receive proper medical treatment, considering that his health has been deteriorating for a prolonged period. The organization is advocating for compassion and humanitarian consideration in the case of the separatist leader.
“Your Excellency, Mazi Kanu’s outright release will demonstrate your earnest desire to break free from the past and to lay a solid foundation for a new relationship between Ndigbo and your new government.
“The granting of Kanu access to his doctor is a commendable step as it has provided a leeway towards his release.
“Our appeal to you is that this is the time to show your humanity and statesmanship.
“Your magnanimity will serve by bringing hope to the nation, demonstrating to the Igbo people that you are a friend willing to listen to our concerns and address them.
“It will show that our hope for a fair and equitable Nigeria is possible and definitely realisable with you as President.”
“While I (Okolo) acknowledge that there have been concerns regarding some of his actions, inactions and rhetoric, it is essential to remember that dialogue and engagement are preferable to protracted detention for addressing such issues.
“Your Excellency may wish to recall that our history is inundated with cases of activists who after receiving similar privileges contributed immensely to the growth of society.”
R