Human rights activist and presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has intensified mobilisation efforts for the October 20 nationwide protest demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
During a public outreach at Utako Market, Abuja, on Wednesday — streamed live via TikTok — Sowore urged Nigerians to unite in solidarity with Kanu, describing him as a victim of political persecution.
“It was an honour to be charged with him (Nnamdi Kanu). I get charged every week in this country. Last week alone, I was charged three times at the Federal High Court,” Sowore said.
Condemning what he termed a pattern of “fake charges” used to silence dissent, the activist called for national unity beyond ethnic lines.
“We are asking you to please come out on Monday en masse. It is our time to bring our brother home,” he declared. “I don’t know my tribe; my tribe is justice.”
Sowore, who has faced repeated arrests under successive administrations, recounted his own experiences with Nigeria’s justice system, citing them as examples of state intimidation of freedom fighters.
He also expressed cultural solidarity with the Igbo people, saying, “As you see me here, I like Igbo music — particularly Ogene music. That means something Igbo dey for my body,” drawing cheers from supporters.
The activist has in recent weeks ramped up grassroots engagement and online campaigns, urging Nigerians nationwide to join the October 20 protest to demand Kanu’s unconditional release and an end to “systemic injustice.”
Kanu has remained in DSS custody since 2021, following his extraordinary rendition from Kenya, despite multiple court orders granting him bail.
The planned protest comes amid mounting pressure from rights groups, political figures, and international observers for the Nigerian government to comply with court rulings and release the IPOB leader immediately.