By Karen James
The Convener of the South East Mandate for Good, Bishop Prof. Emeka Nwankpa, has issued a strong demand to the Federal Government, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to enable him access critical medical treatment.
Bishop Nwankpa made this declaration on Wednesday, following the September 24, 2025, medical assessment carried out by an independent team of experts commissioned by the Nigerian Medical Council at the request of the Attorney General of the Federation. The examination, conducted at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility, confirmed earlier findings by cardiologist Prof. Aghaji and further revealed additional health complications, raising deep concerns over Kanu’s worsening condition.
“This is not a plea. It is a demand based on the facts, the law, and our collective conscience,” Bishop Nwankpa said in a strongly worded statement. “The government has no moral or legal justification to continue holding a man who is unwell and unable to access proper medical care. Release Nnamdi Kanu now for treatment before this becomes a tragedy the nation cannot defend.”
The cleric described the continued detention of Kanu despite credible medical evidence as a violation of local and international human rights standards, warning that such neglect amounts to a crime against humanity. He stressed that it is impossible to speak of justice while allowing an ill defendant to languish in custody.
“It is only a healthy person that can stand trial. To continue this detention is to weaponize the justice system against life itself,” he added.
Bishop Nwankpa also criticized those who earlier attempted to downplay Kanu’s health, particularly Dr. Nasiru Muhammed, whose position has now been discredited by the neutral, multi-regional medical team. He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Attorney General to act swiftly, warning that history and the global community are closely watching Nigeria’s response.
“History will judge all those in positions of authority. Let no one say they were not warned. Let it be known that the South East is watching. The world is watching. This is no longer about Kanu as an individual; this is about whether Nigeria still has a conscience.”
The South East Mandate for Good Governance and several human rights organizations have vowed to intensify advocacy efforts if immediate action is not taken. With public concern mounting and tensions rising, the Federal Government now faces a defining choice: to uphold justice and humanity, or risk irreversible consequences through silence and inaction.
