Two United States-based self-determination advocacy organisations have intensified calls for a review of Nigeria’s handling of the Nnamdi Kanu case, demanding his release, urgent medical attention and a democratic process for addressing calls for self-determination.
The groups, Avid Rising Sun and Ambassadors for Self-Determination, made the demands in a joint statement signed on Thursday by Dr Sylvester Onyia, Mazi Evans Nwankwo and Dede Maxwell.
They argued that political demands for self-determination should be addressed through dialogue and democratic institutions rather than criminal prosecution.
The organisations urged the Nigerian government to recognise a referendum as a legitimate means through which communities could express their political aspirations and determine their future.
To support their position, the groups referenced developments in the United Kingdom, including parliamentary discussions on self-determination, questioning why similar demands should attract criminal proceedings in Nigeria.
They maintained that advocating a referendum should not, by itself, be treated as a criminal offence.
Beyond the political question, the organisations raised concerns about the health and welfare of Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), alleging that he was not receiving adequate medical attention while in detention.
They called for his immediate medical evacuation and access to appropriate treatment, stressing that detainees are entitled to respect for their fundamental human rights.
The groups also appealed to the British government to intervene diplomatically, noting that Kanu is a British citizen. They urged London to seek clarification from Nigerian authorities regarding his health, detention conditions and ongoing legal proceedings.
They further questioned the handling of Kanu’s appeal against his conviction, expressing concern over the delay in hearing the case.
Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment following his conviction on terrorism-related charges in September 2026, according to the statement.
The advocacy groups said the case had implications beyond Kanu himself, arguing that it raised important questions about justice, political expression, federalism and the protection of fundamental rights in Nigeria.
They called on Nigerians to support peaceful engagement on the country’s political future, insisting that discussions about self-determination should be conducted without intimidation or fear.
The organisations reiterated their demand for Kanu’s release, urgent access to medical care and the establishment of democratic mechanisms through which communities could express their views on self-determination.
