By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

NNEWI — The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has raised concerns over the ongoing detention and prosecution of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), describing the matter as extending far beyond routine legal proceedings.

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

The group stressed that the case has become a “critical test of leadership responsibility, constitutional fidelity, and national inclusiveness within the Nigerian federation.” While acknowledging that the Federal Government frames the matter within the context of national security, UNIEC highlighted persistent concerns over due process, jurisdictional consistency, and adherence to legal and human rights standards.

“The United Igbo Elders Council, UNIEC Worldwide, as a body vested with moral authority and a deep sense of responsibility to the Igbo nation, has undertaken a careful and dispassionate review of the ongoing detention and prosecution of Nnamdi Kanu,” the statement read.

UNIEC noted that the Igbo nation’s history demonstrates unity and strategic leadership, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War and post-war recovery, and urged leaders to actively engage on the matter. “Continued silence or detachment by sections of Igbo leadership on this matter risks eroding both moral authority and public confidence,” it said.

The council also warned that the ongoing detention has heightened tensions in the South-East and stressed the need for coordinated leadership engagement to maintain regional stability and national cohesion.

Affirming its commitment to the rule of law, UNIEC called for advocacy for due process, fairness, and judicial integrity, coupled with constructive political dialogue. The elders urged the Igbo “Who is Who” to engage the Federal Government through lawful and diplomatic channels, while supporting credible legal processes and addressing the deeper issues driving regional agitation.

“This moment calls not for rhetoric, but for thoughtful and strategic action. To remain silent is to concede relevance. To act with unity and purpose is to shape outcomes and secure the future,” the council concluded.

Source: Vanguard News