The Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has called for the immediate and unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since 2021.
In a communiqué released on Tuesday, Afenifere expressed concern that Kanu’s right to a fair trial is no longer guaranteed due to conflicting legal proceedings in various courts. The statement was issued following a general meeting chaired by Afenifere’s Deputy Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, in Isanya-Ogbo, the hometown of the group’s leader, Ayo Adebanjo.
The communiqué, signed by Olaitan and Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Justice Faloye, described Kanu as a “political detainee” and insisted there is no justification for his continued detention without trial.
“Afenifere notes that, from all circumstances—particularly since his abduction in 2021 and repatriation to Nigeria—he has been subjected to controversial and conflicting legal proceedings in different courts. His fair trial may no longer be guaranteed, and it is clear that Nnamdi Kanu is undoubtedly a political detainee. There is no justifiable reason to continue keeping him in detention without trial,” the group stated.
During the meeting, Afenifere also announced the appointment of prominent human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi as its National Organising Secretary. Farotimi is well known for his advocacy on governance, human rights, and restructuring in Nigeria.
Reaffirming its long-standing demand for the establishment of state police, Afenifere emphasized the need for restructuring Nigeria’s security framework to allow states greater control over law enforcement.
“Afenifere reiterates that Nigeria, with its vast territory and population, cannot be effectively secured with a single-command, unitary police structure. We call for immediate constitutional changes to institutionalize state police,” the communiqué stated.
The group cited a recent statement by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who lamented the infiltration of bandits into his state despite being the Chief Security Officer. Afenifere argued that state police would empower governors to respond effectively to security challenges.
The renewed calls by Afenifere come amid growing concerns over insecurity, judicial fairness, and national unity in Nigeria.
