Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, detained leader of Biafra Indigenous Peoples (IPOB), called on his supporters not to beg for his release, and asserted that his pursuit of self-determination is a constitutional protection right, not a criminal offence.
Kanu stressed in a speech by his attorney, Aloy Ejimakor, that his release was a matter of law conforming to existing court orders, rather than an act of demanding a pardon or leniency from the president.
Ejimakor conveyed Kanu’s position in a press statement: “Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu insisted that no one should beg or beg for anyone on his behalf because he did not commit any crime. Self-determination, which is a real problem, suddenly becomes High crimes are an inalienable right in Nigerian law, the United Nations, the United Kingdom and Kenya. Improper crimes against this right should not be encouraged by misleading pardons or leniency. Release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not an act of mercy, but abide by The issue of rule of law.”
Kanu thanked those who advocated for the peace of Igeld, while warning that the call for pardon could inadvertently legalize the violations of their rights by executives or judicial officers. Ejimakor added: “Those who wish to release no longer beg and should imitate the language and wit used by groups such as Afenifere, Ohaneze, World Igbo Congress (WIC), rankings of the National Assembly, the US where the US fell Military Veterans (Avid), and other international institutions that explicitly stated that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu should be released because he did not commit a legal crime.
Ejimakor criticized the Nigerian government’s attitude toward the matter and said: “It is Nigeria’s administration that attaches great importance to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, which should show the concept of resorting to crimes in this state under international and common law.”
Ejimakor reiterated that Kanu’s release was a matter of judicial compliance, noting that: “The issue of issuing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not an act of mercy, pardon or amnesty. It requires simple compliance with the judgment of the Federal High Court that declares him unconstitutional or Comply with the International Tribunal’s rulings, which declare their obligation to detain. In addition, under the direction of the President, the Federal Attorney General can end the prosecution constitutionally.”
Kanu remains hopeful, rooted in the resolution of justice and legal governance, while expressing continued support for peace-building efforts in Iboland.
