Prominent Igbo figures, including traditional rulers, clerics, and politicians, have declared their support for the planned nationwide protest calling for the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

The protest, led by activist Omoyele Sowore, is aimed at pressuring the Federal Government to obey court rulings ordering Kanu’s release. Sowore described the demonstration as a “national movement for justice and rule of law,” stressing that it goes beyond Kanu’s case to defend judicial independence in Nigeria.

Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara and ex-Minister of Education Professor Ihechukwu Madubuike both endorsed the protest, describing Kanu’s prolonged detention as unjust and harmful to national unity.

Traditional rulers in Abia State, led by Eze Linus Nto Mbah, also supported the call, saying Kanu’s release would help restore peace in the South East. The monarchs and clerics urged protesters to remain peaceful and advised security agents to avoid the use of force.

Women under the Igbo Women Assembly announced plans to join the march, calling on President Bola Tinubu to show compassion and free Kanu.

However, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) rejected the planned protest, describing it as an attempt to undermine the judiciary. The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) also cautioned youths against joining, citing security risks and a court order stopping the demonstration.

Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services since June 2021, facing charges bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony.