This is one situation that will expose those hiding behind political masks. The world will see those responsible for why this matter has lingered for so long. In underdeveloped nations, freedom fighters, human rights advocates, and political activists agitating for equal rights are often branded as terrorists. Yet, there is a clear distinction between the two. Those who refuse to see that difference because of personal or political interests are remembered by history as the ones who obstructed freedom for a just cause.
We are the ones who must free ourselves from captivity, and I believe that the future will be brighter for those who stand firm in advocating for the oppressed and for good governance. While a freedom fighter works for political liberation, a reformer seeks change within social or political institutions without necessarily aiming to overthrow the government. Indeed, if a system were free from oppression and bad leadership, there would be no need for activism.
Those who fight for freedom through non-violent civil disobedience are the true freedom fighters. Whether someone is labeled a “freedom fighter” or a “terrorist” often depends on perspective and political alignment. What one group considers a struggle for liberty, another might see as rebellion. Sometimes, even a non-violent advocate can be labeled a terrorist, showing how deeply political such labels are.
But one thing is clear: Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is a political prisoner, and Omoyele Sowore is calling for a peaceful protest to demand his release. History will never forget those who propagated evil during times of peace.
Nigerian human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, has issued a public challenge to prominent political leaders from the Southeast, urging them to take concrete action for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
For years, concerned groups, traditional leaders, and civic organizations from the Southeast have appealed to the Federal Government to release Kanu or grant him a presidential pardon. Despite repeated pleas and assurances, the government has yet to yield to these requests.
Kanu, who has been in detention since his re-arrest in 2021, recently made a no-case submission after the Federal Government concluded its presentation, having called five witnesses and tendered several exhibits. His case remains one of the most politically sensitive and divisive in Nigeria’s democratic history.
Sowore, known for his fearless activism, took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday to call on influential Southeast figures including Labour Party chieftain Peter Obi, Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, and Abia State Governor Alex Otti to join him in a peaceful march to Aso Rock Villa, the seat of Nigeria’s Presidency in Abuja.
“I challenge every politician or person of good conscience from the Southeast who says they want Nnamdi Kanu released to stop the rhetoric. The time for action is now. Let’s march to Aso Rock Villa,” Sowore declared.
He further emphasized his willingness to set aside political and ideological differences for the common goal of securing Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom. While some critics argue that these moves are politically motivated ahead of the 2027 elections, others insist Sowore’s intentions are rooted in his lifelong commitment to human rights and justice for the oppressed.
“Every governor, senator, member of the House, traditional ruler, priest, eze, Igbo person, and every Nigerian who believes in Kanu’s freedom come out and do more than talk. I will lead this peaceful march to the Aso Rock Villa,” Sowore stated.
In a passionate continuation of his message, Sowore added:
“No more empty noise. Let Charles Soludo, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Governor Alex Otti, Peter Obi, and all others who claim to care step up and join us in person. We go together peacefully, legally, and visibly to demand justice and an end to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s persecution. Chikena!”
He also cautioned against what he described as “political pretenses” and “empty communiqués,” stressing that the time for symbolic gestures has passed.
“Stop the communiqués. Stop the pretense. Stop the rhetoric. If you truly want Nnamdi Kanu freed, do more than press releases let’s all march to Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.”
Sowore revealed that he had personally reached out to several key Southeast leaders, including Dr. Alex Otti, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, and Mr. Peter Obi. According to him, Otti and Soludo did not respond to his calls or messages, while Obi’s team informed him that the former Anambra governor was currently traveling but would be notified of the initiative.
The activist also stated that he reached out to former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar through his team, and to Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who later returned his call and pledged full support for the movement.
“Senator Enyi Abaribe and I have spoken. He says he’s fully on board with us. According to him, the Southeast caucus in the Senate and House has already met with the Attorney General of the Federation and the National Security Adviser, but there’s been no result. The time to act is now. Enough of the talk,” Sowore added.
Additionally, Sowore disclosed that he had engaged members of the Abia State House of Assembly, who expressed willingness to join the cause after returning from an official trip to London. While they preferred to begin with a formal visit to the Attorney General before joining any street action, Sowore emphasized that unity of purpose remained the ultimate goal.
In a follow-up update, Sowore alleged that the Presidency, through the Department of State Services (DSS), had begun contacting and intimidating Southeast politicians, warning them not to support or participate in the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow movement.
“They’ve contacted some of the names mentioned in my postings to gaslight them, claiming the protest is meant to foment chaos and violence. They’re terrified,” he alleged. “However, we move forward and cannot be stopped.”
Sowore’s call has reignited national debate on the lingering detention of Nnamdi Kanu a figure whose arrest, trial, and continued incarceration have polarized opinions within Nigeria and across the international community.
While some view Kanu’s agitation for Biafra as a legitimate expression of self-determination, others regard his approach as divisive. Yet, his prolonged detention, despite several court rulings in his favor, continues to raise questions about the Nigerian government’s commitment to the rule of law and human rights.
As Sowore mobilizes for what he describes as a “peaceful, lawful, and visible” march to Aso Rock, the spotlight is once again on Southeast political leaders whether they will match their rhetoric with action or continue to watch from the sidelines as one of their own remains behind bars.
“This is not the time for hesitation,” Sowore insisted. “If we genuinely believe that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu deserves freedom, then every leader of conscience must act now, not later.”
It does not cost a candle anything to light another candle, and freedom for Nnamdi Kanu is not expensive. The time to act is now. Free Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Daniel Okonkwo is a seasoned journalist, writer, and human rights advocate known for his incisive commentary on governance, justice, and social equity. Through Profiles International Human Rights Advocate, he amplifies voices demanding accountability and reform across Nigeria and beyond.
With over 1,000 published articles many featured in Sahara Reporters and other major outlets Daniel also works as a ghostwriter, freelancer, and public affairs analyst, blending advocacy with impactful storytelling and an unwavering commitment to truth and justice.
