By Our Correspondent
The Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has called on President Bola Tinubu to order the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
According to Diaspora digital media (DDM), the group emphasized that Kanu’s continued detention is unjustifiable and urged the government to prioritize justice and national reconciliation.
This appeal was contained in a communique issued at the end of Afenifere’s general meeting, which was held at the residence of its leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.
The meeting was presided over by the deputy leader of the group, Oba Oladipo Olaitan.
The communique, jointly signed by Olaitan and the national publicity secretary, Prince Justice Faloye, stressed that Kanu’s fair trial may no longer be possible due to inconsistent and controversial legal proceedings.
According to Afenifere, Kanu has been subjected to conflicting court rulings since his extraordinary rendition to Nigeria in 2021.
The group noted that these legal battles have raised serious doubts about the possibility of a fair hearing, adding that his detention has now become purely political.
The communique stated: “Afenifere notes that, given the circumstances surrounding his abduction and rendition to Nigeria, followed by a series of conflicting court judgments, it is evident that Nnamdi Kanu is now a political detainee.
His fair trial may no longer be assured, as many reasonable observers have pointed out.”
The group, therefore, urged President Tinubu to intervene and order Kanu’s release.
It argued that keeping him in detention without trial is not only unjust but also detrimental to national unity.
“In the interest of justice and reconciliation, Afenifere calls on President Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu immediately.
There is no legitimate reason to continue holding him in custody without trial,” the communique added.
Apart from discussing Kanu’s detention, the meeting also addressed internal matters, including leadership appointments.
Afenifere announced the appointment of human rights lawyer and political activist, Barrister Dele Farotimi, as its new national organizing secretary.
The group stated, “The general meeting of Afenifere has carefully reviewed and approved the appointment of Barrister Dele Farotimi as the national organizing secretary.
His appointment is in line with our commitment to strengthening the organization and advancing the cause of justice and democracy in Nigeria.”
With this new appointment, Afenifere aims to reinforce its leadership structure and continue its advocacy for democracy, justice, and the protection of civil rights in the country.
The group remains vocal on national issues, urging the government to embrace dialogue and inclusivity to resolve ongoing political and ethnic tensions.
As the debate over Nnamdi Kanu’s fate continues, Afenifere insists that his release would serve as a crucial step toward healing divisions and fostering unity in Nigeria.
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