The Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, has called upon President Bola Tinubu to immediately release Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Labeling Kanu as a political detainee, Afenifere contends that his continued detention is unjustifiable and emphasizes the need for prompt action in the interest of justice and national reconciliation.
Afenifere’s Position on Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention
In a communiqué issued after a meeting at the residence of its leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, in Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State, Afenifere articulated its stance on Kanu’s detention. The statement, signed by Deputy Leader Oba Oladipo Olaitan, reads:
“From all circumstances, particularly since his abduction in 2021 and rendition to Nigeria and since then subjected to controversial and conflicting legal proceedings in different courts by which his fair trial may no longer be guaranteed in the opinion of reasonable members of the public, it is clear that Nnamdi Kanu is indubitably a political detainee. In the interest of justice and national reconciliation, Afenifere urges President Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu forthwith. There is no justifiable reason to continue to keep him in detention without trial.”
Background on Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention
Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of IPOB, was arrested in 2021 under circumstances that have been widely debated. Following his arrest, he has faced multiple legal proceedings, leading to concerns about the fairness and transparency of his trial. Various groups and individuals have called for his release, citing issues related to human rights and due process.
Afenifere’s Call for Restructuring and Enhanced Security
Beyond the call for Kanu’s release, Afenifere expressed concerns about the prevailing security challenges in Nigeria. The organization highlighted that the state of insecurity remains as dire as it was under the previous administration. In light of recent alerts, such as the one from Governor Seyi Makinde regarding the influx of bandits, Afenifere reiterated its demand for restructuring.
The communiqué emphasized the need for a decentralized policing system:
“Nigeria, with its vast territory and population, and as a federation, cannot be effectively and meaningfully secured with a single command unitary police structure, thus the need for the restructuring to ensure immediate constitutional institutionalization of state police.”
Appointment of Dele Farotimi as National Organizing Secretary
In the same meeting, Afenifere announced the appointment of Barrister Dele Farotimi as its new National Organizing Secretary. This decision reflects the organization’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership and organizational structure.
Conclusion
Afenifere’s recent statements underscore its commitment to justice, national reconciliation, and the restructuring of Nigeria’s security framework. The organization believes that releasing Nnamdi Kanu and implementing state policing are crucial steps toward achieving lasting peace and stability in the country.
