The All Igbo Youth Forum (AIYF) has issued a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, demanding the unconditional release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The group declared that the President’s response to their demand will largely determine his political fortunes in the South East ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during an executive meeting in Umuahia on Tuesday, the Forum’s President General, Chief Chinedum Obilor, said the continued detention of Kanu is a major grievance among Igbo youths, warning that failure to act within the next two months will trigger the mobilization of over one million youths to reassess their political alliances.

Obilor questioned why Kanu remains in detention while other freedom fighters, such as Sunday Igboho, have regained their freedom. He also criticized South East political leaders for what he described as their silence and lack of commitment to Kanu’s cause.

“We are calling on President Tinubu to show leadership and wisdom by releasing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” Obilor stated. “The same way Sunday Igboho was released, Kanu should be freed. Are the Igbo not part of this country? Why should our case be different?”

He attributed the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) poor electoral performance in the South East during the 2023 elections to the Federal Government’s handling of Kanu’s case.

“If the president listens to us and releases Kanu, we will mobilize massive support for him in 2027. But if he fails to act, he will hear from us at the polls,” Obilor warned.

He also alleged that some South East politicians have used Kanu’s plight for political gain, yet fail to appear in court or speak up on his behalf. He singled out Hon. Obi Obiagocha as one of the few who have shown consistent solidarity.

“We are telling all politicians: if you can’t speak for Nnamdi Kanu now, don’t use his name in 2027 politics,” Obilor declared. “We put you in office, and we can take you out.”

The youth leader concluded by appealing to President Tinubu to heed the voices of the young generation in the region, echoing past appeals made by prominent Igbo elders like the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

“This is the only thing we ask, Mr. President. You won’t need to give us rice or money for votes. Just release our brother, and you will hear from us with your ballot. But if you fail us, we will also respond at the ballot.”