“How Tinubu Refused to Honour Agreement on Nnamdi Kanu After Sending His Son, Seyi, to Us Before 2023 Polls” – Kanu’s Family

The family of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has expressed frustration with President Bola Tinubu for allegedly reneging on a pre-election agreement. According to Prince Emmanuel Kanu, Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother, the arrangement was reached during a meeting facilitated by Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, before the 2023 general elections.

Prince Emmanuel revealed that the meeting took place in Abuja, where Seyi, reportedly acting with his father’s approval, sought to broker an understanding with the Kanu family. The alleged deal was for IPOB to refrain from calling for an election boycott in exchange for Nnamdi Kanu’s release if Tinubu won the presidency.

Prince Emmanuel stated that IPOB honored its side of the agreement, refraining from any interference or calls for election disruption. However, nearly two years into President Tinubu’s administration, Nnamdi Kanu remains in detention, a situation the family describes as a breach of trust.

He pointed out that the judicial process surrounding Kanu’s case has been marked by delays and disregard for court rulings. Justice Binta Nyako, who previously presided over the case, recused herself months ago, yet a new judge has not been appointed. Furthermore, despite decisions by the Appeal Court and Supreme Court affirming Kanu’s release, the rulings have not been implemented.

Prince Emmanuel recalled that Tinubu, during a campaign visit to Owerri, publicly promised to facilitate Kanu’s release if elected. He emphasized that IPOB’s commitment to maintaining calm during the elections was made in good faith, based on assurances from Tinubu’s camp.

“It is baffling that nearly two years into Tinubu’s presidency, my brother remains in detention without any formal charges,” Emmanuel stated. “Nigerian courts have relied on technicalities to stall proceedings, and his continued detention lacks any legal justification.”

He further criticized the government for failing to honor its promises, describing the situation as a betrayal. “It is deeply disappointing that those who claim to be honorable cannot keep their word,” he concluded.