Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the prolonged detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Gatekeepers News reports that Atiku in a post on X, described his detention as a violation of democratic principles and a serious dent on Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law.
Kanu, who was rearrested in June 2021, remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) despite several court orders granting him bail.
The IPOB leader faces charges including treasonable felony and terrorism, which have been the subject of protracted legal disputes.
In a statement on Tuesday, Atiku condemned the alleged disregard for judicial authority, warning that ignoring court rulings amounts to an assault on justice and an abuse of power.
He also voiced his support for the campaign spearheaded by Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and human rights activist, advocating for Kanu’s immediate release or lawful prosecution.
Atiku wrote, “The continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains an open sore on our nation’s conscience and a stain on our belief in the rule of law.”
“Defying court orders that granted him bail is an abuse of power and an assault on justice. I, therefore, lend my voice in full support of the campaign led by Yele Sowore for his immediate release or due prosecution.”
“We fail as patriots if we allow Kanu’s case to fester as yet another wound this nation refuses to heal.”
Meanwhile, Sowore announced that a protest march to the Presidential Villa will be held on October 20, demanding Kanu’s release and the government’s compliance with judicial directives.
