Socialite Pascal Okechukwu popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest has appealed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in order to restore peace in the Southeast.
Cubana Chief Priest’s appeal came in response to a video shared on his Instagram page on Tuesday, showing former Imo State governor Rochas Okorocha at the tribute night for the late Ifeanyi Ubah.
In the footage, Okorocha urged Akpabio to work towards Kanu’s release, highlighting that it would bring stability to the Southeast and help the Igbo people regain control over their affairs.
Echoing Okorocha’s sentiment, Cubana stated that the ongoing insecurity had kept many, including himself from visiting their hometowns for nearly five years.
He lamented the toll of the crisis, citing numerous losses in both lives and property.
He wrote, “@senator_akpabio, the plea from Owelle Ndi Igbo is all we ask for. Let OHAMADIKE Ndi Igbo, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, come back home soon.
“It’s almost five years now, and we have not had access to our hometown. Only his release can restore peace back in our region. We have lost so many lives and properties. We need to rebuild the Southeast as soon as possible. Please help us.”
Nnamdi Kanu has been a central figure in the Southeast conflict.
In October 2015, he was arrested by the agents of the Federal Government of Nigeria, the State Security Service (SSS), in his hotel room at the Golden Tulip Essential Hotel Ikeja, Lagos State.
Kanu was arrested on an 11-count charge bordering on terrorism, treasonable felony, managing an unlawful society, publication of defamatory matter, illegal possession of firearms and improper importation of goods, among others
He was re-arrested in 2021.
His ongoing detention has been a source of tension and is seen by many in the region as a key factor behind the insecurity currently plaguing the Southeast.
