The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has strongly denounced demands for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The group also cautioned political figures, particularly former presidential candidate Peter Obi, against advocating for his freedom.
CNG also condemned Kanu’s recent courtroom behavior, accusing him of disrespecting the prosecuting lawyer and openly challenging the authority of the judiciary.
In a statement released on Thursday by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, CNG accused IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), of carrying out violent attacks on security personnel, government institutions, and civilians.
The group claimed that IPOB’s actions have resulted in the deaths of 175 security officers and the destruction of police stations, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices, and other public infrastructure.
The coalition also criticized Kanu’s recent conduct in court, alleging that he disrespected the prosecuting lawyer and undermined the judiciary’s authority.
CNG insisted that his rhetoric incites violence and threatens national unity, urging the federal government to ensure that he faces justice rather than succumbing to external pressures for his release.
Furthermore, the group accused Peter Obi of prioritizing ethnic interests by advocating for Kanu’s freedom, warning northern voters against supporting politicians who align with IPOB.
CNG reiterated its position that the agitation for Biafra is destabilizing the country and called for international intervention to facilitate a peaceful separation of the South-East from Nigeria.
The coalition also maintained that any Igbo leader advocating for Kanu’s unconditional release should be viewed as complicit in IPOB’s activities, emphasizing that Kanu must be held accountable for his alleged role in inciting violence.
CNG urged the government to uphold the rule of law, stressing that releasing Kanu without due process would embolden separatist movements and compromise national security.