A South East-based organisation, the Task Force and Committee for Free Nnamdi Kanu, has disassociated itself from the planned Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest being organised by activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore.
Sowore had called for nationwide demonstrations on Monday, October 20, demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Sunday, the Convener and Executive Secretary of the committee, Barr. Emejulu Okpalaukwu Okpalaezeukwu, clarified that no recognised group from the South East is involved in Sowore’s planned protest. “At no point did we contemplate staging any protest, especially now that political and traditional efforts are ongoing to secure Nnamdi Kanu’s release,” he said.
Okpalaezeukwu noted that traditional rulers from the region are actively engaged in behind-the-scenes negotiations, warning that any street protest at this stage could jeopardise those efforts. He also alleged that certain individuals were profiting from Kanu’s continued detention and may be exploiting the situation for personal or political gain. “We are not against anyone protesting, but we doubt if it will serve any good purpose now. Our concern is that such actions may disrupt ongoing peace initiatives,” he added.
He urged Igbo traders, youths, and peace-loving Nigerians to steer clear of the October 20 protest, stressing that the movement had concluded “spiritual and political actions” toward achieving Kanu’s peaceful release.
Okpalaezeukwu further stated that the planned demonstration lacks the endorsement of South East traditional rulers and leaders. “Let traders, students, and civil servants go about their normal businesses. If any protest must take place, let it be peaceful and restricted to those who choose to participate,” he advised.
The group also called on security agencies to remain vigilant and ensure the protest is not hijacked by criminal elements or persons seeking to incite unrest.
