Bianca Ojukwu Pledges to Advocate for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release, Calls for Peace in South-East

Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, has vowed to take every necessary step to secure the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). She made this pledge during the 13th memorial anniversary of Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, held in Owerri, with the theme “Unifying the Igbo Race.”

Addressing attendees, Ambassador Ojukwu emphasized that Kanu’s release is critical to distinguishing genuine freedom fighters from criminal elements exploiting his detention to perpetrate violence in the South-East. She stressed the urgent need to address the insecurity plaguing the region, calling on Igbos to unite in reclaiming their land from criminal activities.

“Kanu’s release is vital to exposing those using his name to justify violence. Our region is facing existential threats, and it’s time for collective action to restore peace and prosperity,” she stated.

The ambassador condemned the ongoing violence and criminal activities that have emptied communities and forced many prominent sons and daughters of the region to flee. She decried the rise of kidnapping and the imposition of violent sit-at-home orders, which she said contradict the spirit of Igbo self-determination and enterprise.

“This is not what Dim Ojukwu fought for,” she said. “Our people are known for their industriousness and sense of community. We must reclaim our heritage and restore the ideals of unity and selflessness.”

Ambassador Ojukwu expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu understands the significance of Kanu’s release, stating that it would help unveil those behind the ongoing violence and restore order in the South-East.

“I will do whatever it takes to ensure His Excellency grants this request,” she pledged, urging the Igbo people to work together towards peace and prosperity while upholding the principles for which her late husband, Dim Ojukwu, stood.

The ambassador’s remarks come amid heightened tensions in the South-East, where the effects of insecurity and economic stagnation have been exacerbated by criminality and enforcement of sit-at-home directives by various groups.