Enugu Monarch Urges Tinubu to Secure Nnamdi Kanu’s Release at National Summit

The Ogbunechendo of Ezema Olo Kingdom in Enugu State, Lawrence Agubuzu, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the release of the convicted leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Agubuzu made the appeal on Tuesday while speaking at the National Traditional and Religious Leaders Summit on Health held in Abuja, an event attended by the President and other prominent leaders.

Addressing Tinubu during the summit, the monarch expressed deep concern over Kanu’s continued detention, stating that he was personally distressed by the development.

He referenced earlier remarks made at the event encouraging national unity and teamwork, but questioned what he described as perceived imbalances in the treatment of separatist figures across the country.

The traditional ruler noted that while unity was being advocated, some actions appeared to send mixed signals to the people of the South-East, whom he said were aggrieved over Kanu’s incarceration.

According to him, the continued detention of the IPOB leader has heightened tension in the region, with many youths expressing frustration and suspicion toward traditional and political leaders.

“We are being asked to go back and mobilise our people, yet the young people in the South-East are agitated. They see us as sellouts,” he said, urging the President to take decisive steps.

Agubuzu further suggested that if Kanu was no longer wanted in Nigeria, he could be returned to Kenya or the United Kingdom, where he was previously based.

“The ball is in your court. Bring this man out. If we don’t want him in Nigeria, return him to where he was taken from,” the monarch stated.

President Tinubu did not make any direct comment in response to the plea but applauded the monarch after his remarks, drawing reactions from participants at the summit.

Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment for terrorism by the Federal High Court, Abuja, in November 2025. He is currently being held at a correctional facility in Sokoto State.