I Will Ensure That Nnamdi Kanu is Released – Bianca Ojukwu Vows

Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, made a strong statement during the 13th memorial anniversary of her late husband, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, in Owerri. She vowed to do everything within her power to ensure the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in detention for several years. According to Ojukwu, Kanu’s release is vital not only for his freedom but also for addressing the ongoing issues of violence and criminality that have plagued the South-East region of Nigeria.

Ojukwu pointed out that Kanu’s continued imprisonment had inadvertently provided a cover for criminal elements within the region. These individuals, she argued, used Kanu’s detention as a guise for perpetrating violence and illegal activities, making it difficult to distinguish between genuine freedom fighters and criminals. She emphasized that by securing Kanu’s release, the Nigerian government would expose these hidden perpetrators and help restore peace and order in the region. This, she believes, is crucial in separating those genuinely advocating for the freedom of the Igbo people from those causing harm and terror in the community.

The South-East of Nigeria has been suffering from severe insecurity, including kidnappings, killings, and widespread violence. Communities in the region have been significantly affected, with many residents fleeing their homes due to the rise in violence. In her speech, Ojukwu described the unfortunate situation where even family members are now victims of abductions for ransom. She expressed deep concern that this ongoing crisis is far removed from the vision Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu had for the Igbo people, which was centered on unity and progress, not violence and chaos.

One of the major points of her speech was the need to end the violence that has been exacerbated by the imposition of sit-at-home orders. These orders, often attributed to IPOB or its affiliates, have caused immense economic disruption in the South-East. Ojukwu criticized the imposition of these orders, saying they undermine the principles of self-determination and economic growth. The economic impact has been devastating, with businesses shutting down, markets remaining empty, and the daily lives of the people in the region severely disrupted. This, she claimed, runs contrary to the ideals of prosperity and mutual support that the Igbo people stand for. She called for a return to normalcy, where people can go about their lives and business without fear of violence or repression.

Furthermore, Ojukwu pointed out that the Igbo people are known for their enterprising nature and their sense of community. She emphasized that it was essential for the Igbo people to reclaim their land, both in the literal and figurative sense, from the hands of those exploiting the situation for personal gain. The violent events in the region, she said, should not define the Igbo identity. Instead, the focus should be on unity, progress, and the continuation of the legacies of the great leaders like Dim Ojukwu, who fought for the welfare of his people.

Ojukwu concluded her address by reiterating her belief that President Bola Tinubu understands the importance of Kanu’s release and its potential to help restore order in the region. She expressed her resolve to do whatever it takes to ensure that President Tinubu grants this request. For Ojukwu, freeing Nnamdi Kanu is not just a matter of justice for an individual but a necessary step towards healing the deep wounds in the South-East and rebuilding a peaceful, prosperous region.

Her statement was not only a call for Kanu’s release but also a plea for the restoration of peace and security to a region that has long struggled with violence and instability. By addressing these issues, she believes that the South-East can once again thrive, in line with the ideals of self-determination and communal success that have long been associated with the Igbo people.