By Our Correspondent
National News – A pro-Nnamdi Kanu coalition has announced a major protest scheduled for Thursday in Aba, Abia State, calling for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.
The demonstration, branded the “One Million March,” is expected to attract supporters from across Nigeria’s South-East region.
Organisers of the protest, operating under the banner Coalition of Lovers of Freedom, circulated flyers urging sympathisers to converge in Aba to peacefully demand the freedom of Kanu.
According to the group, the march is intended to amplify calls for justice and highlight growing agitation among supporters who believe the IPOB leader’s continued detention is unfair.
A former member of the Abia State House of Assembly, Obinna Ichita, has appealed to protesters to maintain discipline and avoid actions that could trigger violence.
Ichita urged participants to demonstrate responsibly and respect security personnel deployed to monitor the gathering.
“As Aba residents and supporters prepare for the march, I appeal for calm, civility and restraint,” he said.
“While emotions surrounding Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remain strong, the strength of our cause lies in peaceful expression and respect for human life, property and the rule of law.”
Kanu, who led the IPOB separatist movement advocating for an independent Biafra state, was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2025 after being found guilty of terrorism-related charges.
The trial judge, James Omotosho, ruled that prosecutors had proven the IPOB leader used broadcasts and public statements to incite attacks on security personnel and civilians.
The court also noted that Kanu’s messages allegedly contributed to violent incidents in Nigeria’s South-East and during anti-police demonstrations in Lagos.
Despite the conviction, supporters and some activists have continued to demand his release, arguing that dialogue and political solutions are preferable to prolonged detention.
Security agencies are expected to monitor Thursday’s march closely as tensions surrounding the IPOB leader’s case remain high.
Authorities have repeatedly warned against any protest that could threaten public safety.
Observers say the planned demonstration reflects the persistent political and emotional divisions surrounding the Biafra agitation and the future of separatist movements in Nigeria’s South-East.
