The family of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has written an open letter to the governors of South Eastern states, pleading for their intervention in his ongoing difficulties as he reportedly endures a slow and agonizing decline. 

Authored by Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel, the letter expressed disappointment that the governors have allowed the Biafran activist to be unlawfully detained for over three years, with his basic human rights violated.

Emmanuel contended that it falls upon the governors of the five Igbo states to safeguard the civil liberties of all individuals, including Kanu, irrespective of their beliefs or affiliations. He emphasized that if the governors continue to overlook Kanu’s situation, they will be held responsible by the people of Biafra should anything untoward occur to the IPOB leader.

The letter reads:

“I am writing this letter with utmost urgency and deep concern regarding the unlawful and unjust detention of my brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

“In recent events, it has become abundantly clear my brother, a law-abiding citizen and a prisoner of conscience, has been wrongfully held against his will and his fundamental human rights have been violated under your watch.

“As a concerned family member, I implore you to rectify this grave injustice without delay.

“Kanu is a man of impeccable character and a strong advocate for justice, freedom, and equality. He has consistently stood up for the righteous causes in our society, challenging the status quo and working tirelessly to bring about positive change.

“It is truly disheartening to witness his unwavering commitment to safeguarding human rights being met with such callousness and disregard for basic principles of justice.

“The details surrounding my brother’s arrest and subsequent detention are deeply troubling and indicative of a systemic failure within our justice system.

“The charges brought against him are baseless and appear to be nothing more than an attempt to silence his voice and undermine his campaign for social justice.

“His detention is politically motivated, solely aimed at suppressing his activism and preventing him from continuing his valuable contribution to our society.

“As a concerned family member, I strongly condemn the unlawful detention of my brother and the blatant violation of his rights.

“It is your duty as governors to ensure the protection of every individual’s civil liberties, regardless of their beliefs or affiliations. Your obligation to uphold the principles of justice and fairness should guide your actions in every decision made.

“I demand you take immediate and decisive action to secure the release of my brother. I call for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his arrest and detention, holding accountable those responsible for these egregious violations.

“Furthermore, I urge you to ensure all charges against him are dropped, as they lack any substantiated evidence.

“Kanu is gravely ill and dying slowly and painfully. Biafra land will hold you all accountable should anything happen to him,” Emmanuel said in the letter.