HURIWA demands Nnamdi Kanu’s release, N100b for Southeast states

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has renewed its call for the immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The group also demanded compensation of N100 billion for his unconstitutional detention and dehumanisation.

The group urged the federal government to compensate each of the Southeast states with N100 billion to address the region’s economic devastation caused by insecurity, mass arrests, and systemic neglect.

HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, in a statement, on Tuesday, criticised the federal government for its continued disregard for local court rulings and international human rights directives, including those of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

The group said Mazi Kanu’s 30 months of detention without lawful cause represents a grave miscarriage of justice that undermines Nigeria’s democracy and respect for the rule of law.

According to HURIWA, the prolonged and unconstitutional incarceration of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not just a personal tragedy but a stain on Nigeria’s commitment to justice, human rights, and democratic principles.

“We call for his immediate and unconditional release, as directed by multiple court rulings, and demand a public apology from the federal government alongside a N100 billion compensation for the dehumanisation he has suffered,” HURIWA stated.

The organisation also noted that Kanu’s detention has exacerbated insecurity in the South-east, resulting in a significant economic downturn for the region. HURIWA estimated that the insecurity triggered by the government’s heavy-handed approach has cost the Southeast billions in lost revenue, disrupted education, and heightened unemployment among the youth.

“The economic bleeding of the Southeast zone, perpetuated by the unlawful arrests and detention of hundreds of Igbo youths under the guise of belonging to IPOB, has created a climate of fear and instability.

“This has deterred investments, shuttered businesses, and left millions of people struggling to survive.

“The federal government must compensate each of the five South-East states with N100 billion to mitigate these economic losses and restore stability.”