In a recent interview on Arise TV, political analyst and development expert Abba Kaka shed light on the political undertones surrounding the prolonged detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). His remarks have reignited public debate over the complex relationship between justice, politics, and national unity in Nigeria’s democratic system.
Speaking during a panel discussion, Kaka suggested that Kanu’s continued detention may not be purely a legal or national security matter but one deeply entangled with political calculations.
He disclosed that during the last election cycle, certain influential figures expressed fear that Kanu’s release could have shifted electoral dynamics, especially in the Southeast.
According to him, “If you allow him to come out, a certain political party might not win the election.”
His statement has since triggered widespread reactions across political and civil society circles. Many Nigerians interpreted the comment as a bold revelation of how political interests might be dictating decisions that should be guided by the law and principles of justice.
Kaka, known for his candid political analysis, argued that such manipulative tendencies have undermined public trust in Nigeria’s leadership and judicial system.
He said the perception that some individuals are being detained for political reasons rather than genuine national security concerns could fuel discontent and deepen regional divides.
“This issue has gone beyond the courtroom,” Kaka said. “It has become a symbol of political manipulation. The more you delay justice, the more you fuel resentment and alienation among the people.”
The IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, has been in detention since June 2021, after being rearrested and extradited to Nigeria from Kenya. His case has dragged through the courts for years, with multiple rulings ordering his release, including one by the Court of Appeal in 2022, which declared his arrest illegal. However, the federal government has consistently refused to comply, citing ongoing investigations and national security implications.
Kaka described this prolonged detention as a threat to Nigeria’s democratic image and an assault on the independence of the judiciary. He condemned what he called a “dangerous precedent,” where court orders are disregarded for political convenience.
“It is unacceptable that someone remains in custody for so long without conviction,” he said. “Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. Once the people begin to doubt the fairness of the system, the government loses its moral authority.”
The political analyst further urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to approach the issue with statesmanship and fairness. He called on both federal authorities and Southeast leaders to initiate dialogue that would pave the way for reconciliation and lasting peace.
“The nation cannot heal if it continues to treat one region as a threat,” Kaka noted. “Releasing Nnamdi Kanu under clear terms of dialogue and accountability would be a step toward national unity and justice.”
Kaka emphasized that the Nigerian government must learn from history and prioritize national cohesion over partisan advantage. According to him, suppressing political movements through force rather than dialogue only strengthens their resolve and alienates more citizens.
He also warned that the continued disregard of legal processes could embolden impunity in governance, weaken democratic institutions, and create long-term instability.
“When citizens no longer believe in the courts, they turn to alternative means of seeking justice and that is dangerous for any country,” he added.
Public opinion remains divided on Kanu’s case. While some believe his actions endangered national security, others see him as a victim of selective justice. However, Kaka’s comments have revived calls for a political solution to what many describe as a deeply rooted national issue. See, More, Here>>>>
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