In a recent statement, Amb. Dr. Kalu Ofon Emmanuel, the Lagos State Chapter President of the International Human Rights Protection Service based in Naples, Florida, USA, addressed the contentious issue of Nnamdi Kanu's detention in a recent interview with INDEPENDENT.
He discussed the reluctance of President Tinubu to release Kanu despite calls from elder statesmen like Chief Edwin Clark and Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
Emmanuel acknowledged the widespread calls for Kanu's release but expressed doubts about immediate action.
He suggested that Tinubu's decision might depend on the stance of Igbo elites and Southeast Governors.
Emmanuel criticized what he viewed as the political nature of Kanu's prolonged detention and its economic implications for the Southeast region.
He pointed out perceived gaps in the treatment of Kanu compared to others facing criminal allegations, underlining regional biases in Nigeria's legal system.
Emmanuel also highlighted the economic disruptions caused by protests supporting Kanu, noting significant losses in the Southeast.
Emmanuel urged Tinubu's administration and Igbo political leaders to consider the broader implications of Kanu's detention on national stability and economic recovery.
He suggested that releasing Kanu could help alleviate tensions and foster reconciliation in the country.
"The whole thing has become political. If Nnamdi Kanu had come from the North, or South-West or South-South, it would have been absolutely impossible for him to be remanded in prison for so long. Think of Sunday lgboho, who allegedly committed punishable crimes, punishable by the law, he’s walking freely on the streets. Yet, the man who committed no crime as others is punished and languishing in pain in prison. That is absolutely disgusting, inhuman, and violation of his fundamental human rights. If Tinubu and his government and other lgbo political elites, as well as the Southeast Governors are not deriving joy in his continual detention, l believe something substantial ought to have been done to ensure his release," he said.