By NELSON NNANNA NWAFOR

The case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the embattled leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), remains one of the most controversial and polarizing issues in Nigeria’s contemporary political landscape. For years, his arrest, extradition, trial, and continued detention have raised fundamental questions about justice, equity, and the Nigerian state’s treatment of dissent — particularly as it pertains to the Southeast region.

With the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, many believed a chapter of political high-handedness and ethnic bias would end. In the minds of millions, Kanu’s prolonged incarceration should have ended with that era. But why does this issue persist? Is this truly a matter of national security and justice, or has it become a case of political persecution?

Prosecution or Persecution?

To determine whether Nnamdi Kanu is being prosecuted or persecuted, we must first understand the legal and political context of his case.

The Legal Argument (Prosecution)

The Nigerian government insists that Kanu is being prosecuted for crimes against the state — ranging from treasonable felony to incitement, running a proscribed organization (IPOB), and jumping bail. According to official claims:

IPOB was declared a terrorist organization in 2017.

Kanu fled Nigeria while on bail during a military invasion of his residence.

His rhetoric, particularly on social media and Radio Biafra, has been classified by the state as inflammatory and inciting violence.

From a strictly legal standpoint, these are serious charges. Any sovereign state would be within its rights to prosecute an individual advocating for the disintegration of the country, especially through controversial or militant methods.

The Political and Human Rights Argument (Persecution)

However, the bigger picture paints a more disturbing reality. Kanu’s arrest in Kenya in 2021, reportedly without due process (what many call extraordinary rendition), violated international laws. His prolonged detention without conclusion of trial, repeated disobedience of court orders for his release, and the harsh treatment of his supporters suggest a pattern of political suppression rather than impartial justice.

The Nigerian government has, on multiple occasions, ignored court rulings — including those from the Court of Appeal — ordering Kanu’s release. When judicial orders are disregarded, it moves the needle from prosecution to persecution.

Moreover, when individuals from other regions — including known bandits and terrorists — are given amnesty, rehabilitation, or political cover, yet an Igbo separatist agitator is held without bail for years, it becomes clear that ethnic bias plays a role. This double standard is not lost on the public.

After Buhari: A Missed Opportunity for Closure

President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure was marked by deep ethnic mistrust, especially between the federal government and the Southeast. Many saw Buhari’s stance on IPOB and Kanu as overly aggressive and vindictive. His death was seen by some as symbolic — an opportunity for the new leadership to close that dark chapter and chart a path of reconciliation.

Yet, Nnamdi Kanu remains in custody under President Bola Tinubu, despite calls from various stakeholders — including traditional rulers, lawmakers, and civil society — for his release. The continuation of his detention suggests either a reluctance to offend entrenched northern political interests or a misunderstanding of the opportunity at hand.

A Word of Wisdom for Igbo Leaders

To the political, traditional, and religious leaders of the Southeast: the time for silence is long gone. History will not be kind to those who stood by while one of their own was politically crucified for daring to voice the aspirations of millions — even if in a controversial manner.

1. Unity Over Division

Igbo leaders must rise above party lines and unite with a single voice. Whether one agrees with Kanu’s methods or not, the principle at stake is justice and the dignity of the Igbo people. Disunity is what has allowed the persecution to continue. An injury to one must be seen as an injury to all.

2. Speak Truth to Power

Leaders must have the courage to engage the federal government, not as beggars, but as stakeholders in the Nigerian project. They must demand Kanu’s release — not with sentiment, but with reason, law, and diplomacy.

3. Reconnect with the People

Many Igbo youths feel abandoned and voiceless. This alienation is what fuels movements like IPOB. If leaders are to win back the hearts of the people, they must show that they care, that they listen, and that they are willing to fight for justice.

4. Prepare for the Future

The future of the Southeast cannot be built on bitterness, but it also cannot be built on silence. A new strategy is needed — one that blends political negotiation with cultural pride and economic empowerment. Releasing Nnamdi Kanu could be the first step toward healing and reconstruction.

Conclusion

Whether one views Nnamdi Kanu as a freedom fighter or a lawbreaker, the fact remains: justice must not be selective. The longer his case drags on without resolution, the more it appears not as prosecution, but as persecution — a symbol of Nigeria’s failure to handle dissent with fairness and dialogue.

The Buhari era may be over, but its shadow looms large. It is time for Igbo leaders, and indeed all Nigerians, to demand a new beginning. Releasing Nnamdi Kanu may not solve all of Nigeria’s problems — but it could begin the process of reconciliation that the country so desperately needs.

•Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, Executive Director of FENRAD, is a Political Analyst, Development Consultant, Environmental Justice Campainger And Human Rights Activist. He can be reached via 08033383708, 07062949232, info@fenrad.org.ng, info.fenradnigeria@gmail.com