Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
As momentum builds for the October 20 nationwide protest declared by human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, voices of dissent are growing louder across Nigeria. Among the latest to join the movement is the Benue Concerned Citizens (BCC), which has vowed to take to the streets in solidarity.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Michael Oboh, and Secretary, Chief Chris Awo, the group described the continued detention of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, as “an act of profound injustice that we will no longer tolerate.”
For the group, the disparity between how the state treats separatist agitators and known terrorists underscores a deep flaw in Nigeria’s justice system.
“It makes no sense to keep Kanu behind bars while bandits and terrorists are granted state pardon,” the statement said.
Since his extraordinary rendition from Kenya in 2021, Kanu has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja. His case has dragged on in court with what the group described as “endless adjournments,” fueling widespread frustration.
“We are not alone,” BCC declared.
“From Atiku Abubakar’s call for fairness to citizens planning to take to the streets, the message is clear: Release Nnamdi Kanu.”
The group also accused the Federal Government of insensitivity to Kanu’s worsening health and of flouting judicial rulings ordering his release.
“Disregard for judicial decisions is the hallmark of a dictatorship, not a democracy,” the group asserted.
Vowing to act if nothing changes, BCC issued an ultimatum: “If Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not released immediately, we will mobilize and join the nationwide protests en masse. This is not a request. It is an ultimatum.”
Founded as a grassroots movement for justice and democratic accountability, the Benue Concerned Citizens says it will continue to stand “shoulder-to-shoulder with every Nigerian who values justice over tyranny.”
