Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), remains unwavering in his fight against the marginalization of Nigeria’s South-East region, even if released from detention, his brother, Kanunta Kanu, has stated. Speaking exclusively in an interview, Kanunta emphasized that Kanu’s demands are focused on improved infrastructure and regional autonomy, rather than outright secession.
Kanunta clarified that Nnamdi Kanu’s advocacy, as outlined in an eight-point agenda presented in 2017 at the Enugu State Government House, centered on demands for better roads, hospitals, education, and job-creating factories in the South-East. He noted that Kanu did not include Biafra as a precondition for toning down his agitation.
"His demands are simple. He asked for good governance and regional autonomy akin to the 1960 constitution. These issues remain unaddressed," Kanunta remarked.
Kanunta criticized the federal government for its refusal to engage Kanu in dialogue, asserting that open communication is vital for resolving the region’s unrest. "Kanu is resolute and well-meaning. If his reasonable demands are met, there will be no need for agitation," he said.
He also highlighted the 2017 Operation Python Dance, describing it as a military crackdown ordered after Kanu's meeting with regional governors. This, he claimed, demonstrated a lack of genuine commitment to addressing South-East grievances.
Kanunta dismissed claims that the Northern oligarchy is behind his brother’s prolonged detention but suggested that political interests tied to the 2027 elections may be at play. He accused South-East politicians of benefiting from insecurity in the region and using Kanu’s detention for political leverage.
"Many of these politicians are eyeing vice-presidential slots and have prioritized personal gains over regional stability," he alleged.
Addressing the role of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the Biafra Government in Exile, Kanunta downplayed his significance, labeling him a "content creator." He attributed the region’s insecurity to political machinations rather than IPOB.
"Unknown gunmen and the violence in the South-East are fueled by politicians using state resources to destabilize the area. Linking these actions to IPOB is a misguided attempt to tarnish its image," Kanunta stated.
Comparing Nnamdi Kanu’s case to those of other activists like Omoyele Sowore and Sunday Igboho, Kanunta alleged that Kanu’s detention reflects a conspiracy against the Igbo people. He criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for inheriting and perpetuating these challenges, describing the government’s actions as politically motivated.
Kanunta urged the president to prioritize national unity and development, warning that the continued detention of Kanu could exacerbate Nigeria's instability.
Kanunta further accused the government of mismanaging funds allocated to regional security and failing to address corruption. He called for structural reforms, emphasizing that addressing the root causes of unrest in the South-East and across Nigeria is essential for the nation’s progress.
As speculations over Kanu’s release persist, his brother’s statements underscore the enduring tensions and unresolved grievances within Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
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