Northern Lawmakers Face Backlash for Supporting Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has harshly criticized federal lawmakers from the north for backing calls to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This development follows a rising chorus of prominent Nigerians, including lawmakers, advocating for Kanu’s freedom.

The CNG condemned this support as treasonous and unpatriotic. They expressed particular dismay at northern lawmakers for aligning with such demands, contrasting this with their understanding of southeastern politicians’ longstanding support for Kanu.

Describing the call for Kanu’s release as an affront to victims of his secessionist activities and to the Nigerian populace, the CNG highlighted their historical opposition. On August 7, 2017, they reported Kanu to the United Nations, accusing him of terrorism against innocent Nigerians and advocating for IPOB’s designation as a terrorist organization.

“We reject this legislative rascality,” declared Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, CNG’s National Coordinator, in a statement. Charanchi criticized the northern lawmakers for supporting what he termed the release of a terrorist who faces charges in a competent court, accusing them of undermining the Nigerian judiciary and the rule of law.

He questioned the lawmakers’ whereabouts during incidents where northerners were allegedly targeted by Kanu’s supporters, criticizing them for prioritizing personal benefits over citizens’ interests. Charanchi warned that such support could demoralize security operatives by seeing a figure responsible for their colleagues’ deaths celebrated rather than apprehended.

While not surprised by the support from southeastern legislators and leaders, whom he labeled as accomplices, Charanchi condemned northern lawmakers endorsing the move. He vowed that the CNG would not allow the blood of their loved ones to be shed in vain and pledged to oppose any actions that would let terrorism prevail.