Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, founder of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) and leader of the Biafra Independence Movement (BIM), has pledged his readiness to join any peaceful demonstration in Nigeria calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a video statement obtained by SaharaReporters on Wednesday, Uwazuruike, who referred to himself as Ijele Ndigbo, emphasized that his support is not motivated by personal loyalty to Kanu, but by a broader concern over the perceived injustice and humiliation faced by the Igbo people in Nigeria.
“I have listened to Nnamdi Kanu’s court appearance today and the representations made by his lawyers. I want to be part of any peaceful demonstration in Abuja or elsewhere in Nigeria for his release,” Uwazuruike said.
He revealed that he had previously contacted Kanu’s legal counsel, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, expressing willingness to serve as a defense witness, and reiterated his commitment following recent developments.
“So, for this new development, I want to be part of it. I am ready to go to Abuja or any part of Nigeria where such demonstrations will take place. I will be part of it, provided it is anchored on non-violence and peaceful protest. I will be there, and I mean it,” he added.
Uwazuruike framed the agitation beyond Kanu’s personal ordeal, describing it as a reflection of the systemic marginalization of the Igbo nation.
“This is not about Nnamdi Kanu; this is about Ndigbo. If anybody thinks that Nnamdi Kanu is being humiliated today, no—it is Ndigbo that are being humiliated,” he declared.
He also criticized what he described as double standards in the government’s handling of terrorism-related cases across Nigeria.
“When my men were being killed in the Southeast, we were labeled terrorists. When Nnamdi Kanu was declared wanted by the DSS simply for supporting me, he was treated differently. What did he do wrong?” Uwazuruike questioned.
He reiterated his commitment to participate in the peaceful protest, stressing that the issue transcends individual figures and concerns the future and dignity of the Igbo people.
In parallel, Omoyele Sowore, activist and convener of the planned march, confirmed via his verified social media accounts that he had contacted the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State Assembly, who said a plenary session would soon set a date for the protest at the Aso Rock Villa under the hashtag #FreeNnamdiKanuNOW.
Sowore has challenged political leaders from the Southeast, including governors, senators, and other public figures, to join the protest in person. “Every governor, senator, member of the House, traditional ruler, priest, eze, Igbo person, and every Nigerian who believes in Kanu’s freedom, come out and do more than talk. I will lead this peaceful march to the Aso Rock Villa,” he stated.
Uwazuruike’s endorsement adds significant weight to Sowore’s initiative, signaling growing support among prominent Southeast leaders for a non-violent push to secure Kanu’s release.
