Preparations Intensify for the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow March
As preparations reach an advanced stage, organizers of the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest have reaffirmed that the planned October 20 march to Aso Rock Villa will go ahead as scheduled.
The peaceful demonstration seeks to demand the immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Engagements with Lawmakers to Secure Political Intervention
In pursuit of a lawful and diplomatic resolution, campaign leaders have continued discussions with key officials of the National Assembly. Earlier in the week, they met with Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, and his deputy, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, to press for parliamentary action on the matter.
The goal, according to sources, was to persuade the Speaker to convene an urgent plenary session so that lawmakers could pass a formal resolution urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order Kanu’s release.
Speaker Abbas Cites Ongoing Court Case
However, Speaker Abbas reportedly declined to raise the issue officially, citing the pending status of the case in court. Despite this, he assured that he would privately consult certain lawmakers, particularly Hon. Obi Aguocha, who represents Nnamdi Kanu’s constituency, to explore possible political and non-judicial solutions.
He also disclosed that he had previously made discreet efforts with the Department of State Services (DSS) regarding Kanu’s continued detention.
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Deputy Speaker Confirms Talks with President Tinubu
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu confirmed that ongoing discussions with President Tinubu had taken place concerning Kanu’s possible release. He admitted, however, that the judicial process had been frustratingly slow, suggesting that some officials might be relying on the court case as a reason to delay action.
Abia Assembly’s Role Still Unclear
Meanwhile, inquiries to the Abia State House of Assembly regarding their participation in the October 20 protest have yet to yield a response. This comes despite earlier public statements by the lawmakers pledging to join the Abuja demonstration in solidarity with their detained kinsman.
October 20 March Remains Sacrosanct
Organizers have maintained that the October 20 protest date remains unchanged. They emphasized that the demonstration will be peaceful, lawful, and resolute, aimed at demanding justice and freedom for Nnamdi Kanu.
There are also reports suggesting that President Tinubu may travel to Rome around the same period, prompting speculation about the timing. Nevertheless, activists expressed optimism that the President will be back in Nigeria to witness what they describe as “the will of the people in full measure.”
FreeNnamdiKanuNow Movement Gains Global Momentum
The #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign continues to gain traction across Nigeria and among the diaspora community. Supporters believe that a political solution remains the most effective way to end the prolonged detention and foster peace in the South-East region.
As October 20 approaches, all eyes will be on Abuja to see how the Federal Government responds to growing calls for dialogue, justice, and national unity.
