The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has expressed strong 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, who has been held at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Abuja since his controversial extradition from Kenya in 2021, remains hopeful about his legal battle and continues to advocate for the self-determination of the Igbo people.
Kanu made this declaration during a visit from the President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA), Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, at the DSS headquarters in Abuja. The visit provided an opportunity for Kanu to discuss his thoughts on his ongoing detention, his commitment to the struggle for self-determination, and his views on the state of leadership within the Igbo community.
Following the meeting, Ezenekwe issued a press release, revealing that Kanu appeared to be in good health despite the prolonged incarceration. Contrary to widespread concerns about his well-being, Ezenekwe noted that Kanu had gained some weight and looked relatively healthy, which surprised many who expected him to be physically weakened by his ordeal.
During their conversation, Kanu reaffirmed his unwavering belief in the quest for self-determination for the Igbo people, emphasizing that a referendum remains the most viable path to achieving this goal. He described his advocacy as a fundamental right and reiterated that his only "offense" was urging his people to awaken from their political and economic slumber. Despite the challenges and opposition he has faced, Kanu remains steadfast in his convictions and committed to the cause he has championed for years.
He also took the opportunity to address the perceived leadership gap within the Igbo community. According to Kanu, the lack of strong, united leadership has left the region vulnerable and voiceless at a critical time. He expressed disappointment that Igbo leaders had not been more vocal in addressing the concerns of their people and championing the region's interests on the national and international stage.
Despite the ongoing legal battles and the uncertain political climate, Kanu conveyed his confidence in his legal team and expressed optimism that he would regain his freedom soon. He remains hopeful that the judiciary will deliver justice and that his case will set a precedent for the recognition of self-determination as a legitimate pursuit.
The statement issued by Ezenekwe after the visit read: “Today at the DSS headquarters in Abuja, I had the honor of visiting Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). During our discussion, he appeared healthier and more relaxed, displaying remarkable resilience despite his prolonged detention.
“He called for a referendum, describing it as a crucial step toward self-determination, and reiterated his firm belief that he has committed no offense other than urging our people to awaken from their slumber. His message was one of hope and determination, as he remains unwavering in his pursuit of justice and freedom.
“He also reassured me that he is adhering to his prescribed medications and is maintaining a positive spirit. More significantly, he voiced his concerns about the current leadership vacuum in the Igbo community, highlighting the urgent need for strong and decisive leadership to advocate for the people’s rights and interests.
“Kanu expressed his unwavering confidence in his legal team and his hope for release by the end of April 2025. This statement resonated as a powerful testament to his dedication, resilience, and fortitude in the face of adversity.”
In light of his conversation with Kanu, Ezenekwe took the opportunity to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action regarding Kanu’s case. He urged the Nigerian government to demonstrate a commitment to justice, democracy, and human rights by securing Kanu’s release and addressing the broader issues concerning the Igbo people.
“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 his own personal experiences as a pro-democracy advocate to ensure that justice prevails. It is time for decisive action to secure the freedom of our brother and hero, Nnamdi Kanu,” Ezenekwe stated.
“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. The continued detention of Kanu is not just about him as an individual; it is a reflection of the struggle for justice, equality, and self-determination for an entire region.”
As April 2025 approaches, all eyes remain on the Nigerian government and the judiciary. Supporters of Nnamdi Kanu, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, continue to push for his release, seeing it as a necessary step toward addressing the grievances of the Igbo people and fostering national unity. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Kanu’s confidence in his imminent release will be validated or if his legal battle will persist further.