Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has urged his supporters to refrain from pleading for his release, maintaining that his pursuit of self-determination is a fundamental right and not a criminal offense.
Through his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu reiterated that his freedom should be based on legal compliance with existing court rulings rather than appeals for presidential clemency or pardon.
In a press statement, Ejimakor conveyed Kanu’s position: “Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu insists that no one should plead or beg on his behalf because he has committed no crime. Self-determination, which has been unjustly criminalized, is an inalienable right protected under Nigerian law, as well as international legal frameworks of the United Nations, the United Kingdom, and Kenya. Seeking pardon for an unjustly detained person only serves to legitimize violations of his rights. His release is not a favor but a matter of upholding the rule of law.”
While appreciating those advocating for peace in Igboland, Kanu cautioned that requests for clemency could undermine his legal standing. Ejimakor added: “Instead of begging, advocates of his release should adopt the firm and strategic approach taken by groups such as Afenifere, Ohaneze, the World Igbo Congress (WIC), National Assembly leaders, and international bodies like the American Military Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), who have consistently maintained that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu deserves freedom because he has not committed any recognized offense.”
Criticizing the Nigerian government’s handling of his case, Ejimakor asserted: “It is the Nigerian government, which unlawfully abducted and extradited Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, that should be seeking redemption for committing a state crime under international law.”
He emphasized that Kanu’s release is a legal obligation, stating: “This is not a matter of mercy, pardon, or amnesty. The government must simply comply with the Federal High Court ruling that deemed his detention unconstitutional or adhere to international tribunal decisions declaring his detention unlawful. Alternatively, the Attorney-General of the Federation, acting under the President’s directive, has the constitutional authority to discontinue the prosecution.”
Kanu remains hopeful for a just resolution while continuing to support peace-building efforts in Igboland.
