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AVID Urges UK PM Starmer to Secure Nnamdi Kanu’s Release from Nigerian Detention
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.
It was reported that former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan has allegedly purchased a presidential candidate form for the 2027 elections.
It can be noted that Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015.
This information was revealed by Sani Useni, a special assistant who made the claim. Many reacted to the news, with some expressing interest in seeing Jonathan return to power after staying relatively quiet politically since his administration ended.
However, Jonathan has not yet addressed the public or officially shared any presidential ambition.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has reacted to the recent abduction incident in Oyo State.
It can be recalled that schools were attacked by armed men, with some teachers and students reportedly taken. Some people were also killed during the attack.
CAN cried out on behalf of the public, stating “It is intolerable, disgraceful and utterly unacceptable that Nigerian children can no longer sit safely in classrooms without the fear of being kidnapped by armed gangs.”
The organisation also stated that Nigerians are tired of constantly mourning and questioning when something will finally be done to stop the violence.
The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has revealed that seven teachers were abducted following a recent attack on a school in the state.
It was also shared that the number of students taken is still being investigated.
The governor further revealed that some people were killed during the attack and abduction.
He also added “With the pressure on the terrorists and the bandits in the North-West, they will keep moving southward.”
“When you have pressure in one place, we must be prepared on this side to either repel or neutralise any terrorists fleeing the pressure points.”
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