Southeast City Boys Movement Backs Monarch’s Appeal for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

Politics

The Southeast chapter of the City Boys Movement has expressed support for the recent appeal by Enugu monarch, His Royal Majesty Igwe Amb. Dr Lawrence Okolio Chikezie Agubuzu, calling for the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, from Sokoto Prison.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by Dr Uche Nworah, Director of Media and Publicity, the group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his participation in the National Traditional and Religious Leaders Summit on Health in Abuja, and for the manner in which he received Igwe Agubuzu’s remarks. The group emphasised that the monarch’s intervention, particularly on the issue of Kanu’s detention, reflects the concerns of the Southeast over regional stability.

The statement noted that the appeal aligns with the Movement’s objectives of advancing the political and socioeconomic development of the Southeast. “To achieve this, we must operate from all fronts. Our traditional rulers are playing their part, as demonstrated by Igwe Agubuzu’s speech,” the group said.

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The City Boys Movement expressed confidence that President Tinubu, “as a democrat and father of the nation,” will consider the appeal and take steps toward Kanu’s release to foster peace and stability in the Southeast.

Kanu was arrested in Kenya in 2021 under controversial circumstances and returned to Nigeria in what his lawyers described as “extraordinary rendition.” His detention sparked widespread protests and debate over due process and international law. In November 2025, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced him to life imprisonment on seven terrorism-related charges. While the government maintains that his actions endangered national security, his defence team insists the charges are politically motivated and his rendition violated international law.

Agubuzu’s appeal adds to growing pressure from lawmakers, civil society groups, and Southeast leaders who have repeatedly urged President Tinubu to intervene. Analysts warn that Kanu’s continued detention could heighten unrest in the region and undermine national reconciliation efforts.