By Abubakar Yunusa
The Coalition of Northern Groups has condemned the planned nationwide protests demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, describing the move as “reckless, provocative and a direct affront” to Nigeria’s sovereignty and judiciary.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Friday, the National Coordinator of the coalition, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, said the agitation—allegedly driven by some Igbo political elites, activists like Omoyele Sowore, and a few “unpatriotic” northern collaborators—was a dangerous attempt to blackmail the Nigerian state.
“It is morally reprehensible and politically irresponsible that some individuals who claim to be democrats are openly advocating for the release of a man whose violent secessionist agenda has claimed over 1,200 lives, including 400 security personnel,” Charanchi declared.
He added that over 100 police stations had been burnt and properties worth more than ₦450 billion destroyed across the South-East in the wake of IPOB’s violent campaigns.
The CNG insisted that no amount of street protest or emotional appeal could erase these atrocities or pressure the government into compromising the rule of law.
“Releasing Nnamdi Kanu under mob pressure would not heal Nigeria; it would embolden lawlessness and erode public confidence in justice,” the coalition warned.
It called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resist any attempt to blackmail or cajole the Presidency into interfering in judicial matters, urging him to “reclaim his statesmanship” by upholding the sanctity of the courts.
The group also demanded an investigation into those funding and coordinating the planned demonstrations under the guise of human rights advocacy.
CNG further urged security agencies to remain vigilant and proactive to prevent any breakdown of law and order during the protests.
While appealing to Nigerians—especially peace-loving citizens of the South-East—to reject calls to anarchy, the coalition reaffirmed its commitment to national unity, peace, and justice.
“No nation can survive when treason is rewarded and justice politicised. The law must take its course; without justice, there can be no peace,” Charanchi said.
