The Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has renewed calls for President Bola Tinubu to order the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), emphasizing concerns over the fairness of his trial and the need for national reconciliation.
The demand was made public in a communiqué issued on Tuesday following the organization’s general meeting held in Isanya-Ogbo, Ogun State, the hometown of its leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo. The meeting, presided over by Oba Oladipo Olaitan, Afenifere’s Deputy Leader, also included discussions on security reforms and governance issues.
Kanu’s Detention Unjustified – Afenifere
The group strongly criticized the Nigerian government’s handling of Kanu’s case, describing it as riddled with “controversial and conflicting legal proceedings”, making a fair trial impossible.
In the communiqué signed by Oba Olaitan and Justice Faloye, Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, the group labeled Kanu a “political detainee”, asserting that there is no justifiable reason for his continued incarceration without trial.
“From all circumstances surrounding his case, particularly since his abduction in 2021 and subsequent repatriation to Nigeria, it is clear that Nnamdi Kanu is being held for political reasons. His prolonged detention without trial contradicts principles of justice and raises serious concerns about due process,” the statement read.
Dele Farotimi Appointed National Organising Secretary
In a significant development, Afenifere also announced the appointment of Dele Farotimi, a well-known lawyer and rights activist, as its National Organising Secretary. The group expressed confidence in Farotimi’s ability to strengthen its mission and contribute to the advancement of democracy, justice, and human rights in Nigeria.
Afenifere Backs State Policing for National Security
Beyond Kanu’s detention, Afenifere reiterated its longstanding advocacy for state policing, arguing that Nigeria’s vast geography and complex security challenges cannot be effectively managed under a unitary police command.
“The ongoing security crises across the country, including the infiltration of bandits into different states, highlight the urgent need for constitutional restructuring to institutionalize state police,” the communiqué stated.
The group pointed to recent concerns raised by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State over bandit activities in the region, stating that without decentralizing law enforcement, state governments will remain powerless in protecting their people.
Renewed Calls for Dialogue and National Unity
Afenifere urged the federal government to prioritize justice, inclusivity, and national dialogue in addressing the country’s pressing issues. It called on President Tinubu to take decisive steps in fostering national unity, which includes releasing Nnamdi Kanu and engaging all regions in meaningful discussions on governance and security reforms.
The meeting ended with a reaffirmation of Afenifere’s commitment to equity, justice, and true federalism, as the group vowed to continue advocating for policies that promote peace and national development.
