The Odua People’s Assembly (OPA) has issued a strong denunciation of activist Omoyele Sowore’s campaign demanding the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), labeling the movement as both provocative and insensitive.
In a declaration from its national chairman, Kayode Richard Olatunji, OPA criticized Sowore’s efforts as misguided and counterproductive, undermining the collective healing process of Nigerian communities, particularly in the Southwest, which continue to recover from the turmoil allegedly sparked by Kanu during the 2020 #EndSARS protests.
Back in October 2020, a massive wave of young Nigerians mobilized nationwide to protest against police brutality, focusing on the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). These demonstrations, known as the #EndSARS movement, initially embodied a peaceful demand for justice and systemic reform.
Olatunji remarked, “The #EndSARS protests symbolized a unified hope for a Nigeria free from oppressive policing. Unfortunately, this hopeful movement was derailed when Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB’s leader, intervened with inflammatory rhetoric.”
“Broadcasting on Biafran radio, Kanu incited violence by urging attacks on security forces and destruction of both public and private properties. His words shattered the peaceful spirit of the protests and became a rallying cry for those intent on exploiting the unrest for their own political ends.”
“One glaring example was the audacious assault on the Oba of Lagos’s palace by IPOB members, acting under Kanu’s instigation. This attack led to the theft of substantial funds and desecration of a revered cultural institution.”
“The invasion of the Oba’s palace was more than mere vandalism; it was a profound violation of Yoruba cultural heritage and traditional authority. The palace, a cornerstone of Yoruba monarchy and history, was stormed by individuals allegedly motivated by IPOB’s leadership to advance a violent political agenda.”
“The removal of the Oba’s staff of authority-a sacred emblem of kingship-highlighted the severity of the offense. This was not just theft but a direct assault on the cultural identity and social cohesion that the traditional leadership fosters within the community.”
“During the raid, approximately $2 million and N17 million (around N787 million) were stolen, illustrating the chaos unleashed by Kanu’s incitement. While the #EndSARS movement sought to combat police brutality, the violent acts perpetrated by IPOB members starkly contradicted the protest’s original ideals.”
“Such disruptions diverted focus from the movement’s legitimate goals and fueled perceptions of lawlessness, ultimately undermining the protest’s credibility.”
OPA further cautioned that reviving such divisive campaigns risks reigniting old conflicts, endangering the peace and unity painstakingly maintained in the Southwest.
Olatunji added, “The fallout from Kanu’s provocations was devastating. In Lagos and neighboring areas, IPOB militants exploited the #EndSARS protests to unleash widespread violence. On October 21, 2020, violent clashes erupted at key locations including Lekki Toll Gate, Surulere, Oyingbo, Alausa, Mushin, Ikotun, Agege, and Somolu.”
“The unrest was not limited to Lagos; it spread to other states, with prison riots breaking out simultaneously at Ikoyi and Kirikiri prisons. What began as peaceful demonstrations descended into chaos, resulting in numerous casualties and extensive destruction.”
“The violence extended beyond Lagos, with significant damage reported in several states. In Ondo State, the Okitipupa Oil Palm Plc suffered attacks that led to the burning of buildings and looting, with losses estimated at N300 million.”
“Similarly, in Ilorin, Kwara State, the Shoprite Mall and various businesses were heavily looted, leaving a trail of devastation. Osun State also experienced widespread looting and destruction of stores and farms, with damages approximated at N5 billion.”
“These events highlight how a movement originally focused on justice was hijacked by Kanu’s agenda, resulting in widespread anarchy and suffering.”
“As guardians of our people’s welfare, we cannot remain silent while calls for Kanu’s release dismiss the pain endured by those whose livelihoods were shattered. The Odua People’s Assembly holds that accountability is essential to justice. Kanu, like anyone who incites violence, must be held responsible for his actions.”
“The push for Kanu’s unconditional freedom disrespects the memories of victims and ignores the hardships faced by families who lost homes, businesses, and loved ones due to the unrest he provoked. It shows a lack of empathy for communities still struggling to rebuild.”
“Such campaigns risk reigniting tensions that have taken great effort to quell. The Southwest is known for its resilience and unity, and we must not allow divisive rhetoric to fracture our solidarity.”
The Assembly called on the Federal Government to maintain a firm stance and ensure that Kanu’s legal process is fully carried out, warning that leniency could encourage future agitators to resort to violence as a political strategy.
“The Odua People’s Assembly unequivocally rejects the demand for Nnamdi Kanu’s unconditional release. We consider it a reckless and dangerous appeal that disregards the suffering of many in the Southwest. We remain steadfast in our dedication to justice, peace, and the restoration of our communities,” the statement concluded.
