Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has joined growing voices demanding justice for the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, Atiku described Kanu’s continued detention as “an open sore on our nation’s conscience” and “a stain on Nigeria’s belief in the rule of law.”

The call has quickly become a trending topic across Nigeria’s political and social media space, sparking heated reactions from both supporters and critics.

A Call for Justice and Rule of Law

Atiku’s remarks came shortly after human rights activist and 2023 African Action Congress presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, launched a nationwide campaign demanding Nnamdi Kanu’s release.

In his post, Atiku wrote:

“The continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains an open sore on our nation’s conscience and a stain on our belief in the rule of law. Defying court orders that granted him bail is an abuse of power and an assault on justice.”

He added that he fully supports the campaign led by Sowore for Kanu’s immediate release or due prosecution, insisting that “we fail as patriots if we allow Kanu’s case to fester as another wound this nation refuses to heal.”

Growing Momentum Behind the Campaign

Sowore, on his part, has called on South-East governors, lawmakers, and community leaders to join the movement. He revealed that he had reached out to several prominent figures, including Governor Chukwuma Soludo (Anambra), Governor Alex Otti (Abia), Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, and Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate.

Sowore stated that Atiku’s support would “add immense moral weight” to the campaign and push the federal government to act swiftly.

Legal and Political Tension Over Kanu’s Detention

The renewed attention on Nnamdi Kanu’s detention has reignited long-standing questions about the Nigerian government’s respect for judicial orders. Several court rulings have granted Kanu bail, yet he remains in custody under the Department of State Services (DSS).

Observers say Atiku’s public support could shift the political landscape, especially as Nigeria approaches key electoral moments where unity and rule of law will again come under scrutiny.

Public Reactions and Nationwide Debate

Atiku’s statement has drawn mixed reactions.
Supporters of the former Vice President applauded his courage to speak out against perceived injustice, while critics argue that his comments are politically motivated.

Across X and Facebook, hashtags like #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, #AtikuSpeaks, and #RuleOfLaw have gained traction, reflecting widespread frustration with the government’s handling of the case.

Conclusion: A New Turning Point?

The call by Atiku Abubakar for Nnamdi Kanu’s release adds a significant voice to the growing demand for justice and respect for due process in Nigeria. Whether this pressure will compel the government to act remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—the nation is watching closely.