The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has expressed outrage over a recent call by 180 members of the House of Representatives Minority Caucus for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by CNG National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the group described the lawmakers’ demand as an insult to the victims of Kanu’s alleged actions and a disgrace to the Nigerian people.
CNG highlighted its previous actions against Kanu, noting that it had reported him to the United Nations on August 7, 2017, for his group’s activities, which they alleged to be terroristic.
They recall that the Nigerian government officially designated IPOB as a terrorist organization on June 27, 2021, following Kanu’s arrest and subsequent charges related to incitement of violence, destruction of property, and the deaths of numerous Nigerian citizens and security personnel.
“We reject this legislative rascality and remind Nigerians that the call for Kanu’s release is a blatant attempt to subvert the rule of law and undermine the judiciary’s authority,” the statement read. CNG questioned the lawmakers’ motives, especially those from Northern Nigeria, accusing them of prioritizing personal interests over the welfare of their constituents and the nation.
The group condemned the potential reintegration of Kanu into society, highlighting the pain and suffering endured by the families and colleagues of security personnel allegedly killed due to incitements.
While expressing disappointment with Northern lawmakers who supported the motion, CNG praised Hon. Aminu Jamo of Daura/Sandamu/Mai Adua federal constituency for his opposition to the endorsement, calling his actions patriotic.
CNG urged Nigerians to reject the call for Kanu’s release and stand firm against terrorism and those who support it, vowing not to let the sacrifices of those who died in the fight against terrorism be in vain.
