The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has applauded President Bola Tinubu’s readiness to negotiate the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

 

Ohanaeze also praised the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, for playing a key role in initiating discreet negotiations toward Kanu’s freedom. Umahi had, during an event in Lagos, revealed that the Federal Government is considering political dialogue as a pathway to Kanu’s release.

 

In a statement issued on Sunday by factional Deputy President-General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze emphasized that while it welcomes Tinubu’s intervention, Kanu’s release must not be tied to securing political support for the president’s re-election in 2027.

 

The group stressed that the Igbo are a “sophisticated and strategic people” who understand the deep-rooted issues of marginalization they face and are determined to pursue thoughtful, non-violent solutions.

 

“Ohanaeze commends Umahi for leading efforts to ease tensions in the Southeast and for facilitating a constructive dialogue with the Federal Government. We believe discreet negotiations are already underway and bringing us closer to Kanu’s release,” the statement read.

 

The group, however, cautioned against inflammatory comments or actions from individuals or factions benefiting from Kanu’s prolonged incarceration. It warned against “crisis merchants” sabotaging the process through propaganda or reckless rhetoric.

 

Ohanaeze called for a 90-day ceasefire from all sides to allow sensitive talks to proceed without disruption. It vowed that anyone undermining the peace process would be held accountable.

 

“The truth is, this matter will not be resolved by courtroom drama alone. It rests with President Tinubu to apply political solutions,” the group concluded.

 

As of press time, negotiations were said to be ongoing, with optimism growing about a peaceful resolution to the prolonged detention of the IPOB leader.