Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has led a protest in Aba demanding the release of detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
The demonstration took place around the busy Ariaria International Market, one of the largest commercial hubs in southeastern Nigeria, where protesters marched through sections of the market carrying banners and chanting solidarity slogans calling for Kanu’s freedom.
One of the banners displayed during the march read: “Coalition of Lovers of Freedom – Free Our Leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” as demonstrators moved through the A-Line section of the market, attracting the attention of traders and residents.
The protest reportedly began with a small group of participants but gradually grew as more people joined along the route, turning the demonstration into a major spectacle within the bustling market environment.
Addressing the protesters, Sowore criticised the heavy deployment of soldiers and other security operatives in Aba during the demonstration. He argued that such a strong military presence would be more appropriate in regions battling serious insurgency and terrorist attacks.
According to the activist, he was not the organiser of the Aba protest but joined the rally because he believes in justice and fairness regarding Kanu’s case.
The protest once again highlights the continued agitation in parts of the South-East over the detention of Kanu, whose supporters have repeatedly called for his release.
Meanwhile, Sowore is also facing legal challenges in Abuja, where a Federal High Court has warned that his bail could be revoked if he fails to appear in court in an ongoing trial related to alleged defamatory remarks against President Bola Tinubu.