Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), describing it as “an open sore on our nation’s conscience.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, Atiku demanded Kanu’s immediate release, insisting that his prolonged incarceration constitutes a serious breach of the rule of law and a stain on Nigeria’s democratic values.
“The continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains an open sore on our nation’s conscience and a stain on our belief in the rule of law,” Atiku said.
“Defying court orders that granted him bail is an abuse of power and an assault on justice.”
The former Vice President expressed full support for the ongoing campaign led by activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, urging the Federal Government to either release Kanu immediately or prosecute him in line with due process.
“I, therefore, lend my voice in full support of the campaign led by @YeleSowore for his immediate release or due prosecution. We fail as patriots if we allow Kanu’s case to fester as yet another wound this nation refuses to heal,” he added.
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021, following his re-arrest in Kenya and extradition to Nigeria. His case has sparked widespread legal and political debate, with several court rulings granting him bail that have reportedly not been honoured by the authorities.
The IPOB leader currently faces a seven-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism and incitement.
On Wednesday, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja adjourned Kanu’s trial until October 16, following the Nigerian Medical Association’s failure to submit its report on his health status to the court.
Atiku’s statement adds renewed political weight to growing calls for the government to respect judicial orders and address what critics describe as a blot on Nigeria’s commitment to justice and human rights.
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