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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Azuta Mbata, has called on the Federal Government to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, describing his continued incarceration as a collective pain shared by the entire Igbo nation.
Mbata made the call during his address at the group’s Imeobi/General Assembly meeting in Enugu on Thursday, where he spoke extensively on unity, development, and the future of the Igbo people, anchoring his remarks on what he termed a critical concern for the region.
The Ohanaeze leader said Kanu’s detention goes beyond an individual issue, insisting that it reflects the emotional and political state of the South-East.
“I told the Federal Government that Nnamdi Kanu, who is in jail, is the entire Igboland that is there. There is no Igbo man that is happy that Kanu is in incarceration. Let our people stop deceiving the Federal Government,” Mbata said.
He added, “We are calling on the government of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release Kanu. This is the minimal demand of Ndigbo.”
Beyond the Kanu matter, Mbata used the occasion to urge unity among Igbo leaders and stakeholders, warning that internal divisions could undermine the region’s quest for political relevance and economic growth.
“As we convene today at this monumental Imeobi/General Assembly, it is with deep humility and great honour that I stand before you. This gathering is not just a meeting; it is a testament to our resilience, our unity, and our unwavering commitment to the advancement of Ndigbo and our beloved Alaigbo.
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“Today, we stand at a pivotal moment in our history—a moment that calls for introspection and action. The pains of the past are lessons learned, guiding us towards a more prosperous future,” Mbata added.
He called on stakeholders to set aside political, economic, and social differences in pursuit of a common agenda, saying: “We must set aside any differences that may divide us and unite under the banner of progress and prosperity for our people. Our strength lies in our ability to forge a common purpose.”
On governance and leadership, Mbata charged Igbo leaders to rise to the demands of the moment with courage and accountability.
The Ohanaeze President-General also touched on national issues, expressing support for ongoing conversations around additional state creation, which he described as a positive development.
“Additional state creation is a welcome development. We’re happy that it is receiving attention,” he said.
He further emphasised the need for cultural preservation, urging families and institutions to prioritise the Igbo language.
Addressing Igbo in the diaspora, he commended their contributions and urged them to continue representing the region positively abroad.
