The Ohanaeze Ndigbo has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), describing his continued detention as unacceptable to the Igbo people.

The demand was made on Thursday in Enugu during the Ohanaeze Imeobi and General Assembly held at the group’s national secretariat.

Speaking at the event, Ohanaeze President-General, Chief Senator John Azuta-Mbata, cautioned the Federal Government against relying on individuals claiming to guarantee electoral support from the Southeast ahead of the 2027 elections.

He stressed that Kanu’s release remains a critical condition for meaningful political engagement with the region.

According to Mbata, Kanu’s incarceration symbolizes a collective grievance among the Igbo people. He said there is widespread dissatisfaction across the region over the continued detention of the IPOB leader, who is currently serving a sentence in Sokoto following his conviction for treason.

Mbata described the call for Kanu’s release as the “minimal demand” of Ndigbo, urging the Tinubu administration to act accordingly. He added that while proposals such as additional state creation are welcomed, they do not replace the urgency of addressing Kanu’s case.

The Ohanaeze leader also condemned what he described as the persistent stereotyping of the Igbo people, while urging Igbos both at home and in the diaspora to remain law-abiding and respectful of their host communities.

He emphasized the need for individuals to reflect core Igbo values wherever they reside, warning against conduct that could undermine the group’s cultural identity and reputation.

Mbata further highlighted concerns about the declining use of the Igbo language, noting warnings that it is under threat. He called for renewed commitment to preserving the language through its promotion in homes, schools, and communities.

He disclosed that Ohanaeze has taken steps to support this effort by establishing professorial chairs in Igbo language and culture in four universities, with plans to introduce scholarships and online learning platforms for diaspora communities.

In addition, Mbata charged Igbo political leaders to demonstrate courage, accountability, and vision, noting that their actions would ultimately be judged by history and future generations.

The call underscores ongoing tensions surrounding Kanu’s detention and its broader political implications as Nigeria gradually approaches the 2027 general elections.