Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja as part of ongoing efforts to secure the release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Sowore disclosed details of the meeting in a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday, noting that the discussion focused on peaceful and just solutions to Kanu’s prolonged detention.
The Sahara Reporters publisher, who has been at the forefront of campaigns for Kanu’s freedom, announced that the meeting with Jonathan was both encouraging and productive.
According to him, the former President acknowledged the urgency of addressing Kanu’s case in the interest of national unity, fairness, and reconciliation.
“President Jonathan agreed that there is an urgent and compelling need to address this matter decisively and justly. I thank him sincerely for recognising the importance of resolving Kanu’s case for peace and national healing,” Sowore said.
He added that Jonathan promised to personally discuss the issue with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to explore possible resolutions.
Sowore further noted that the former President has now joined other prominent Nigerians including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), and former Senator Shehu Sani in calling for Kanu’s release.
“Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains in detention today because he took up the just cause of confronting marginalisation in Nigeria. Like others whose politically motivated cases have been withdrawn, Kanu should also regain his freedom without delay,” he said.
The activist reiterated his call to prominent southeastern leaders such as Peter Obi, Governors Charles Soludo, Alex Otti, Francis Nwifuru, Peter Mbah, and Hope Uzodimma, as well as Ohanaeze Ndigbo President General John Mbata and Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili to add their voices to the campaign for justice.
Sowore reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful advocacy, adding, “Nnamdi Kanu should be set free, and I remain firmly dedicated to mobilising for justice and freedom through lawful means.”
The meeting comes ahead of a planned protest march on October 20, which Sowore announced as part of a renewed national movement for Kanu’s release
