Bianca Ojukwu Calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release to Restore Peace, Unity in the Southeast

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has expressed strong confidence that President Bola Tinubu will release Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Speaking at the 13th memorial anniversary of the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu in Owerri on Tuesday, Bianca Ojukwu outlined her belief that such a move would help address ongoing issues of violence and insecurity in the Southeast.

During her address, which centered around the theme “Unifying the Igbo Race,” Bianca emphasized the significant role Kanu’s release could play in distinguishing legitimate freedom fighters from criminal elements that have taken advantage of his detention. “The release of Nnamdi Kanu is paramount to separating genuine freedom fighters from criminals causing mayhem in the Southeast,” she stated. According to her, freeing Kanu would expose those hiding behind the IPOB banner to commit heinous crimes, thus enabling a more effective response to the region’s ongoing security challenges.

She stressed that the Igbo people are not known for violence, and the current state of the Southeast does not reflect the true spirit of the community. “Our people face existential threats, and we must act to restore peace,” Bianca Ojukwu said, calling for collective efforts to reclaim the region from criminal activities and violence. Her remarks underscored a deep concern for the growing insecurity that has plagued the Southeast for years, including the forced displacement of many residents.

Bianca Ojukwu lamented the troubling changes in the Southeast since the death of her late husband, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, the prominent Biafran leader. “Communities are empty. Our illustrious sons and daughters have fled. Kidnappers now abduct their brothers for ransom,” she said, expressing her dismay over the rise in criminal activities that have made life increasingly difficult for residents. According to her, this wave of violence is in stark contrast to what Dim Ojukwu fought for during his lifetime.

In her speech, Bianca Ojukwu reiterated her belief that President Tinubu understands the gravity of Nnamdi Kanu’s release. She expressed her hope that the president would act swiftly to grant Kanu’s freedom, which she argued would be a vital step toward restoring order and exposing the criminals masquerading under the guise of the IPOB struggle. “I will do whatever it takes to ensure His Excellency grants this request,” she said passionately.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs also criticized the imposition of “sit-at-home” orders in the Southeast, which have further exacerbated the region’s economic and social challenges. Bianca Ojukwu pointed out that such violent measures are in direct contradiction to the ideals of self-determination, which she believes should be pursued in a peaceful and constructive manner. “Ndigbo are enterprising and their brother’s keepers. We must reclaim our land and continue to propagate the ideals for which Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu stood,” she urged.

Her call for unity and peace in the region is part of a broader effort to bring attention to the detrimental effects of criminal activity in the Southeast. The violence has not only affected the safety of the people but has also hindered economic activities, with businesses and communities bearing the brunt of the insecurity. Bianca’s call to end the violence and foster unity among the Igbo people echoes the desires of many who seek to reclaim the region from the grip of criminality.

Bianca Ojukwu’s plea for Kanu’s release has added to the growing clamor for the Nigerian government to address the issue as a way to ease tensions in the Southeast. The release of Kanu has become a significant political and social issue in the region, with many viewing it as a crucial step toward bringing about peace and stability. Bianca’s call is not only a personal plea but also a reflection of the broader desires of many who want to see the Southeast return to a state of calm and prosperity.

Her statements at the memorial anniversary highlighted the urgent need for a unified approach to solving the region’s challenges, including the security crisis that has left many in fear.