The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, remains resolute in his demands for the welfare and autonomy of the South-East region, his brother Kanunta Kanu has stated.
In an exclusive interview with DAILYPOST, Kanunta said that Nnamdi Kanu will not compromise his position or be swayed into political bargaining, even if released from detention. He warned against using Kanu’s release as a strategy for the 2027 presidential elections.
Kanunta highlighted that Kanu’s agitation has always been centered on infrastructural development, improved governance, and regional autonomy.
Reflecting on Kanu’s 2017 demands presented at the Enugu State Government House, he noted, “He said you will have to provide us with what we need, which are good roads, hospitals, education, build factories to create employment; these were his demands.”
He dismissed speculation that Kanu’s agitation was exclusively tied to Biafra, clarifying that the movement is rooted in improving the lives of South-Easterners. “His demands were clear and did not include secession as a precondition to end his agitation,” Kanunta remarked.
Kanunta also addressed the role of politicians in perpetuating insecurity in the South-East. He accused some leaders of benefiting financially from unrest in the region, suggesting their motives may include political ambitions for the 2027 elections. He further criticized their failure to advocate for Kanu’s release, implying complicity in his prolonged detention.
On Simon Ekpa, the self-styled “Prime Minister of Biafra Government in Exile,” Kanunta dismissed him as a “content creator” with no real connection to Kanu or IPOB’s objectives. He urged the public not to conflate Ekpa’s activities with the IPOB movement.
Kanunta lamented the government’s refusal to dialogue with Kanu despite court orders for his release. He also criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of continuing the policies of the previous government and undermining judicial rulings.
He concluded by warning that unresolved issues surrounding Kanu’s detention could have long-term consequences. “With the insecurity in this country, Kanu remains the big elephant in the house, and his issues should not be swept under the carpet,” he stated.
