The American Military Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) have called upon the newly elected British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, to press the Nigerian government to release Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In their appeal, AVID has urged Starmer to facilitate a comprehensive review of Kanu’s situation and advocate for his release from what they describe as a “Nigerian dungeon.”

The organization highlighted Kanu’s deteriorating health and the inadequate medical care he has received while in detention.They pointed out that Kanu was apprehended in Kenya in 2021 and subsequently transferred to Nigeria through what they term an illegal extraordinary rendition.

Since then, Kanu has been held in solitary confinement by the Nigerian Department of State Security Services (DSS).

In a statement issued by AVID’s president, Sylvester Onyia, and Secretary Godson Obiagwu, they also extended their congratulations to Starmer for his victory in the UK general elections on July 5, 2024.

The statement praised Starmer’s forward-thinking approach to British colonial impacts on Africa, especially regarding Nigeria.

AVID, a non-profit organization consisting of U.S. veterans of Igbo descent, emphasized their non-affiliation with any political party and their commitment to democratic processes.

They condemned the treatment of Kanu and expressed their concern over his severe health issues, noting recent reports of his illness and the denial of access to medical care.

The organization implored Starmer to expedite the review of Kanu’s case and to advocate for his release, asserting that a call for a referendum should not be equated with violence or conflict.

They expressed hope that Starmer’s leadership would bring about Kanu’s freedom from what they view as cruel and inhumane conditions imposed by the Nigerian authorities.