The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has firmly disassociated itself, South-East governors, and federal ministers from the region from the planned 20 October 2025 nationwide protest calling for the unconditional release of IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In a strongly worded statement released on Thursday, factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Chief Thompson Chinyereze Ohia, National Spokesperson, expressed deep concern over the motives behind the planned demonstration.
According to the statement, Ohanaeze condemned what it described as a “Sowore-Atiku-orchestrated protest”, alleging it was a covert attempt to incite unrest and destabilise the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“We view this purported demonstration with extreme suspicion and firmly believe it to be a thinly veiled attempt at fomenting unrest, destabilising the government of President Bola Tinubu, and exploiting the legitimate concerns of Ndigbo for nefarious political ends,” the group stated.
Ohanaeze warned that the protest could mirror the chaos and destruction of the #EndSARS riots, and that credible intelligence suggests it is a politically motivated effort backed by figures aligned with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
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“This scheme… seeks to exploit the genuine desire for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release and draw unsuspecting Igbo citizens into a dangerous and destructive venture,” the statement read.
The group reiterated its commitment to peaceful and political solutions for Kanu’s release, calling on the public to avoid being drawn into what it called a “booby trap” aimed at derailing legitimate negotiations and judicial proceedings.
“The sudden and unsolicited display of uneasy affection for Igbo causes by individuals previously indifferent or even hostile to our community raises significant red flags.”
They further stressed that the protest does not reflect the true interests of the Igbo people, nor does it contribute meaningfully to the legal and political efforts currently being pursued on Kanu’s behalf, which are being led by Hon. Obi Aguocha.
Ohanaeze urged Nigerians—particularly the Igbo—to distance themselves from the protest, warning of potential violence, looting, and destruction of property similar to what was experienced during the 2020 EndSARS demonstrations.
“We are deeply concerned that the planned protests and riots will endanger the lives and property of Nigerians… The potential for widespread violence is a grave concern.”
The group concluded by calling on all stakeholders to support lawful, constructive dialogue and political engagement over disruptive street actions.
