Southern Youths Demand Nnamdi Kanu’s Release, Call for Unity and Greater Inclusion in Governance

Youths across the 17 states of Southern Nigeria have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The demand follows extensive discussions, reflections, and consultations with key stakeholders across the region.

In a joint statement, the youth representatives emphasized that divisions along ethnic, religious, and political lines have hindered progress in Southern Nigeria. They warned that without deliberate efforts to bridge these gaps, the region may continue to lag behind in development.

Highlighting their significance, the youths noted that they make up over 60 percent of the population and 70 percent of the workforce in Southern Nigeria. They called on President Tinubu to use this moment to integrate young people more meaningfully into governance and national development.

They stressed the importance of equity and fairness in Nigeria’s federal structure and vowed to collaborate with political leaders in the region to strengthen unity and foster regional development.

The youths also reaffirmed their support for President Tinubu’s administration, urging all youth-based organizations in the South to work with the Supreme Council of Southern Nigerian Youth Leaders to build a strong, unified voice for the region’s future.