Former APC Southeast campaign spokesman, Denge Josef Onoh, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and entrust him to two respected figures: Amb. Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Senator John Azuta Mbata, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
In his proposal, Onoh recommends that the governors of Southeast states nominate chairmen of their Traditional Rulers’ Councils, under the leadership of Obi of Onitsha, HRH Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, to sign the bail bond with the National Security Adviser.
Onoh said his choices, Bianca Ojukwu and Senator Mbata, are based on their integrity, deep‐rooted commitment to Igbo culture, and non‑partisan reputation.
He emphasised that Bianca’s role as the widow of Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu‑Ojukwu and her current diplomatic position uniquely place her to serve as a bridge between the Federal Government and Southeast communities.
He described Senator Mbata as an individual whose leadership transcends election cycles, with a track record of mobilizing Igbo youths and citizens for democratic and civic participation rather than separatist politics.
Onoh further argued that Kanu’s prolonged detention since 2021 has harmed peace and stability in the Southeast, noting that the charges of terrorism and treasonable felony have also fostered insecurity, enabling criminals to exploit tensions under the guise of separatism.
He thanked President Tinubu for his diplomatic efforts through the National Security Adviser as well as others for working toward resolving the violence associated with IPOB’s armed wing, the ESN.
Concluding, Onoh urged the President to use his constitutional prerogative of mercy to release Kanu unconditionally, with the handover into the care of Ojukwu and Mbata.
He believes such a move would de‑escalate tensions, help differentiate legitimate agitators from criminal elements, and restore investor confidence in the Southeast.
