South-East Stability At Risk Without Kanu’s Release, Clerics Warn Tinubu
Clerics Call for Urgent Presidential Intervention
THE Anambra State chapter of the Pentecostal Bishops Association has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, warning that his continued incarceration could fuel unrest in the South-East.
The appeal was made at the end of the association’s 2026 Annual Convocation held at Church in Power International in Awka. In a communiqué signed by its Executive President, Bishop Prince Nwodika, the clerics said releasing Kanu would help calm rising agitations in the region.
According to the bishops, the prolonged detention of the IPOB leader has become a flashpoint in the South-East, contributing to political and social tension.
‘Release Will Promote Peace’
In the communiqué, the association made what it described as a passionate plea to the President.
“We are passionately pleading with President Tinubu to use his good office to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally,” the statement read.
The bishops argued that granting Kanu’s release would serve as a confidence-building measure capable of reducing hostilities and improving security in the region.
They also urged the Federal Government to address what they termed “imbalances in the polity,” which they said have aggravated feelings of marginalisation in the South-East. Emphasising the principles of equity, fairness and socio-economic balance, the association maintained that resolving these broader structural concerns would contribute significantly to national unity.
“These measures will significantly improve the much-needed peace and security in the South East region,” the communiqué stated.
Background to the Agitations
Kanu, who leads IPOB, has been at the centre of separatist agitations calling for the restoration of Biafra. His detention has sparked periodic protests and heightened security operations in parts of the South-East.
While the Federal Government has maintained its position on prosecuting him, various groups, including political leaders, traditional rulers and religious organisations, have at different times called for political dialogue and reconciliation.
The Pentecostal Bishops Association’s intervention adds to growing appeals from stakeholders within the region who believe that a political solution could help douse tensions.
Commendation for Soludo
Beyond the call for Kanu’s release, the bishops congratulated Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo on his re-election for a second term in office. They prayed for divine wisdom and guidance for him and other political leaders across Nigeria.
The clerics urged leaders at all levels to govern with compassion and prioritise the welfare of citizens, noting that responsive leadership remains critical to national stability.
Charge to the Church
The association also used the occasion to encourage Christian faithful to remain steadfast in their faith despite global and domestic challenges facing Christianity.
They called on churches to remain “a shining light” in society and to uphold moral values that promote peace, justice and unity.
As tensions continue in parts of the South-East, the bishops expressed hope that constructive dialogue and decisive action by the Federal Government would help avert further escalation and strengthen national cohesion.
