Abia State Assembly Announces Peaceful March Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Continued Detention

Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Austin Meregini. Photo credit:Web

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Umuahia, Nigeria

In a move reflecting growing concern over the prolonged detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the Abia State House of Assembly has announced plans to stage a peaceful march in solidarity with the embattled leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The announcement was made on Tuesday, 7 October 2025, following a resolution passed by the Assembly.

The lawmakers expressed deep dissatisfaction with the continued incarceration of Kanu, who hails from Abia State, despite multiple court rulings that have ordered his release. The Assembly noted that the Federal Government’s refusal to comply with these judgments undermines the rule of law and threatens democratic principles.

Speaking on the floor of the House, the Majority Leader, Hon. Uchenna Okoro, stated:

“We are not here to challenge the authority of the Federal Government, but we must speak for our people. Justice delayed is justice denied, and the continued detention of our son is unacceptable.”

The peaceful march, according to the Assembly, is intended to draw national and international attention to the issue and to urge the Federal Government to respect judicial decisions. The lawmakers emphasised that the protest would be non-violent and conducted in accordance with constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly.

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, added that the Assembly’s position is rooted in its responsibility to represent the interests of Abia citizens. He called on civil society organisations, traditional leaders, and youth groups to join the march in a show of unity and lawful advocacy.

Political observers view the Assembly’s action as a significant development in the ongoing discourse surrounding Kanu’s detention. While the Federal Government has maintained that national security concerns justify its stance, critics argue that prolonged legal defiance could erode public trust in democratic institutions.

The date and route of the peaceful march are expected to be announced in the coming days, with the Assembly assuring that all necessary security arrangements will be made to ensure a safe and orderly demonstration.

As tensions continue to simmer, the Abia State Assembly’s decision adds a new dimension to the conversation, highlighting the intersection of regional identity, legal rights, and national cohesion.