The apex Igbo socio-cultural body, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has renewed calls for the release of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, warning that keeping him behind bars is symbolic of keeping the entire Igbo nation imprisoned.
Speaking at the grand finale of the 2025 World Igbo Day in Awka, Anambra State, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta Mbatta, represented by his deputy, Prince Okey Nwadinobi, said Kanu’s freedom remained essential to peace, reconciliation, and Nigeria’s stability.
“The earlier Kanu is released, the better for the spirit of reconciliation and for Nigeria to move forward. His agitation for self-determination is constitutional, lawful, and legitimate,” Mbatta declared.
He explained that the World Igbo Day was not only a time to celebrate identity but also to remember victims of historic massacres of Igbo people in Northern Nigeria and to honour those who sacrificed for the dignity of the region.
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, also underscored the urgency of Kanu’s release, saying his presence was vital for Ndigbo to collectively determine their political future.
“We need Kanu at home so that Ndigbo can sit together, deliberate, and agree on whether to pursue secession or remain in Nigeria. It is time for one united voice, not scattered positions,” Soludo emphasized.
The event chairman, Senator Ned Nwoko, represented by his Special Assistant, renewed his push for the creation of Anioma State, which would bring the Southeast to parity with other major regions by increasing the number of Igbo states to seven.
As part of the celebration, Ohanaeze Worldwide conferred a chieftaincy title on Governor Soludo. He was honoured as Oku Nanye Ife (“the light that gives light”) by Igwe Chidubem Iweka III, the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council and monarch of Obosi, in recognition of his role in hosting the anniversary.
Other traditional rulers including Igwe Bennett Emeka of Umueri, Igwe Chuma Agbala of Uke, and Eze Kingsley Akobundu Nwogu of Oyigbo in Rivers State, alongside Igbo women leader Iyom Josephine Anenih, applauded Ohanaeze for its courage and maturity in guiding the affairs of the Igbo nation.
