The Nigeria First Project Initiative has warned Nigerians against participating in protests calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

On Monday, demonstrators marched through parts of Abuja demanding Kanu’s release, disrupting daily activities in the nation’s capital.

Addressing reporters in Katsina, Hamza Saulawa, national coordinator of the group, described the protests as politically motivated and a threat to national security. He cited Kanu’s history of jumping bail in 2017 as evidence of a lack of remorse.

“We call on all patriotic Nigerians to avoid the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in the interest of national peace, sovereignty, and prosperity,” Saulawa said.

Kanu, who was rearrested and extradited from Kenya in June 2021, is currently in DSS custody facing terrorism charges. His repeated bail applications have been denied, and his lawyers have raised concerns about his deteriorating health.

Saulawa warned that granting Kanu bail could lead to further acts of division, violence, and threats to Nigeria’s sovereignty.