|By Chinwendu Nwani
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has distanced itself, Southeast governors, and ministers from the planned October 20, 2025 nationwide protest demanding the unconditional release of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement released on Thursday by its factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and National Spokesperson, Chief Chinyereze Thompson Ohia, Ohanaeze said the group and Southeast political leaders remain committed to the peace, stability, and progress of the region and the country at large.
The organisation condemned what it described as a Sowore-Atiku-orchestrated protest, warning that the demonstration was a calculated attempt to stir unrest, destabilize President Bola Tinubu’s government, and exploit the concerns of Ndigbo for political gain.
“We view this purported demonstration with extreme suspicion,” the statement read. “Our assessment, informed by credible intelligence, reveals that this action is a cynical ploy designed to instigate a repeat of the EndSARS riots and undermine the current administration.”
Ohanaeze alleged that the planned protest is being funded by associates of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, claiming it seeks to manipulate genuine calls for Kanu’s release to draw unsuspecting Igbo citizens into a “dangerous and destructive venture.”
The group urged Nigerians to reject the planned protest and instead pursue peaceful and lawful means for Kanu’s release through judicial and political dialogue.
“The sudden show of affection for Igbo causes by those previously indifferent or hostile raises red flags,” the statement added. “Ndigbo must not be used as pawns in any political game aimed at destabilizing the Tinubu administration.”
Ohanaeze warned that any violent protest could endanger lives and property, recalling the destruction and chaos that followed the EndSARS movement. It maintained that the so-called protest does not serve the interests of Ndigbo or the cause of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who has already entrusted his case to a team led by Hon. Obi Aguocha for peaceful resolution.
The organisation concluded by urging all Nigerians to prioritize peace and national stability over political theatrics and divisive agendas.
