The American Military Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) have renewed their call for the immediate and unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, AVID expressed confidence that Kanu’s release would significantly improve peace and security in the Southeast region, reducing the crime rate by as much as 95%. The statement was signed by Dr. Sylvester Onyia, AVID President, and Dr. Godson Obiagwu, the group’s Secretary.
The group described Kanu as a beloved figure among Igbos and non-Igbos alike, who admire his vision and nonviolent approach to advocating for the region.
Excerpts from the Statement: “Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains a brother, son, and father to many who have connected with his vision of inclusivity and progress for all,” the statement read. “Over the years, his popularity and unwavering stand on our collective aspirations have only grown stronger. His nonviolent methods make his cause even more commendable.”
AVID emphasized the urgency of Kanu’s release, noting that keeping him in detention exacerbates insecurity in the Southeast:
“We firmly believe that freeing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu today would lead to a 95% reduction in crime in the Southeast. Anyone opposing his release might be tacitly supporting or benefiting from the insecurity in the region while blaming it on him.”
The group also addressed the financial and political interests behind Kanu’s continued detention: “For those profiting from his infamous and illegal incarceration, it’s time to recognize that releasing him brings more benefits than maintaining this injustice. AVID stands by its conviction that his freedom is essential for lasting peace and progress.”
Call to Southeast Leaders
AVID called on Southeast leaders, particularly Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State, to revisit their stance on Kanu’s release. They reminded Soludo of his earlier position that releasing Kanu would significantly reduce crime, while urging him to maintain that perspective.
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“If this position has changed, it implies that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not the cause of insecurity in the Southeast. Instead, his name is being misused to justify crimes,” the group noted.
AVID argued that the government’s strategy of detaining Kanu to suppress agitation has failed: “The assumption by the previous administration was that incarcerating him would end the agitation. Having kept him this long without achieving that goal, isn’t it wiser to release him now and engage him in dialogue for a better future?”
The American Military Veterans of Igbo Descent reiterated their call for justice and peace, concluding: “Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release is not just a necessity but a moral imperative. It’s a battle between good and evil, and we stand firmly on the side of good.”
