The Governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo, has emphasized that the ongoing call for the release of the Indigenous People of Biafra leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is unrelated to the security issues plaguing the South-East region.
During a media session commemorating his third year in office, Soludo, who has been advocating for Kanu’s release, made it clear that the matter of Kanu’s freedom should be considered independently from regional security challenges.
“The release of Nnamdi Kanu, for me, is separate from the security situation; I do not conflate the two,” Soludo stated.
He explained that his push for Kanu’s release is rooted in fostering broader dialogue regarding the future of the Igbo community, while the insecurity in the area is primarily attributed to criminal activities.
“Nnamdi Kanu is about initiating conversations for the long-term future of the Igbos—a completely different discussion,” he added.
Furthermore, Soludo addressed the issue of criminal activities, stating, “We have extended an olive branch to criminals involved in kidnappings; we are ready to rehabilitate and empower those who come forward. However, those who refuse will face consequences.”
He also criticized Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed leader of IPOB, accusing him of complicating the situation and turning it into a “killing spree.”
“A significant portion of the violence can be traced to Simon Ekpa and his associates, who have recklessly taken lives without restraint,” Soludo remarked.
Ekpa, who has claimed leadership of IPOB following Kanu, was arrested in Finland last November on terrorism-related charges.
Kanu has been detained by the Department of State Services since 2021, following his apprehension in Kenya by the Nigerian authorities. Many community members believe that his release could be a crucial step toward addressing the insecurity faced in the region.
