Sowore Challenges Southeast Leaders to Join Protest for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has called on political leaders from Nigeria’s South-East region to join him in a planned protest demanding the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE News, Sowore accused some South-East politicians of distancing themselves from Kanu’s case to protect their political ambitions. He claimed that certain leaders in the region believed supporting Kanu’s release could endanger their electoral prospects, particularly during the 2023 general elections.

“Kanu’s ordeal is the result of some individuals in the South-East who decided that his release would jeopardise their political careers,” Sowore alleged.

Sowore, who is also the founder of the #RevolutionNow movement, recently announced plans to lead a peaceful march to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja on October 20, demanding Kanu’s unconditional release. The protest, which will begin at 7:00 a.m., has already attracted support from several youth groups and public figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who described the movement as a defence of human rights.

However, Sowore expressed disappointment at the silence of prominent South-East leaders. According to him, attempts to reach out to figures such as Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, and Labour Party leader Peter Obi were unsuccessful.

“Some of those I contacted switched off their phones and have refused to respond,” he said.


He, however, praised Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and a representative from Rivers State for their open support, noting Abaribe’s past efforts in standing by Kanu.

Nnamdi Kanu, 57, has been in detention since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya. The IPOB leader faces multiple charges, including treasonable felony and terrorism financing. His trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja was recently adjourned to October 16 pending a medical report amid growing concerns over his health.

While the presidency has described Sowore’s planned protest as “irresponsible” and warned against any breach of public peace, rights groups have urged the government to respect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly.

Undeterred, Sowore said the campaign has already gained significant grassroots support.
“A lot of young people have signed up for this. Momentum is growing, even if the elites are hesitant,” he said.