Igbo women under the aegis of the Igbo World Assembly (IWA) have urged those they referred to as ‘true Nigerians’ to, irrespective of their tribe, religion, or political party affiliations, identify with Omoyele Sowore’s planned protest for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who has been detained since 2021 when he was renditioned to Nigeria from Kenya, despite reportedly being a British citizen.
The protest, which has been declared to hold nationwide on October 20, 2025, was hailed by IWA, led by Lolo Nneka Chimezie, who said the protest move is “a step in the right direction.”
IWA, in a statement at the weekend, argued that Kanu’s detention amounts to injustice to all; hence, IWA wants Nigerians to unite against injustice and intimidation, and in defence of freedom of speech and the rule of law, adding that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu stood against those ills, and that’s why they came after him.
IWA stated, “Ordinary Nigerians must unite and resist disrespect to court orders. We must not allow politicians to use the fault lines of party, religion, and tribe to continue to divide us, while they themselves are in bed with one another.
“Nigerians must stand together with Kanu, whose predictions have all been fulfilled before us, and that’s why the system is fighting him.”
IWA expressed delight that notable figures from outside Igboland are lending their voices to the growing agitation for the release of Kanu, whom it described as “a freedom fighter and justice advocate, who is only being persecuted for speaking out against the oppression of his people and for exposing the hidden agenda of the oppressors.”
The women group queried why the government was negotiating with real bandits, who have taken up arms against the country, killing both security agents and innocent citizens, yet refused to release Kanu.
IWA commended the efforts of “some Igbo leaders, both dead and alive, who have demonstrated genuine commitment towards freeing Kanu,” and urged them not to relent.
Among those IWA cited in this regard were Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Rep. Obi Aguocha, Peter Obi, former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and others who have reportedly joined the agitation and clamour for Kanu’s release.
IWA specially commended Sowore for his fight against injustice with respect to Kanu’s incarceration, and again appealed to President Ahmed Tinubu to consider the growing appeals and free Kanu unconditionally.
