UNIEC cautions that ignoring Nnamdi Kanu's situation may undermine the legitimacy of Igbo leaders.

The United Igbo Elders Council, a worldwide organization, has voiced its concerns regarding the ongoing detention and prosecution of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, stating that the issue goes beyond ordinary legal proceedings.

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In a statement titled “UNIEC Worldwide: The Necessity of Responsible Igbo Leadership Engagement on the Nnamdi Kanu Matter”, signed by Director-General His Lordship Justice Alpha Ikpeama, the council cautioned that continued silence from some Igbo leaders may undermine their moral authority and public confidence.

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The council emphasized that the case serves as a critical test of leadership responsibility, constitutional fidelity, and national inclusiveness within the Nigerian federation, while also acknowledging the Federal Government's framing of the matter as a national security issue.

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UNIEC highlighted persistent concerns over due process, jurisdictional consistency, and adherence to legal and human rights standards, emphasizing the need for careful review and consideration.

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The statement from UNIEC noted that the organization, vested with moral authority and a deep sense of responsibility to the Igbo nation, has undertaken a thorough examination of Nnamdi Kanu's ongoing detention and prosecution.

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UNIEC drew on the Igbo nation's history, which demonstrates unity and strategic leadership, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War and post-war recovery, to urge leaders to actively engage on the matter.

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The council warned that continued silence or detachment by sections of Igbo leadership on this matter risks eroding both moral authority and public confidence, emphasizing the need for active engagement.

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The ongoing detention has heightened tensions in the South-East, according to UNIEC, which stressed the need for coordinated leadership engagement to maintain regional stability and national cohesion.

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Affirming its commitment to the rule of law, UNIEC called for advocacy for due process, fairness, and judicial integrity, coupled with constructive political dialogue to address the issues at hand.

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The elders urged prominent Igbo individuals to engage the Federal Government through lawful and diplomatic channels, supporting credible legal processes and addressing the deeper issues driving regional agitation.

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The council concluded that the situation demands thoughtful and strategic action, stating that to remain silent is to concede relevance, while acting with unity and purpose is to shape outcomes and secure the future.