Kanu’s Brother Reveals Why IPOB Leader Remains in Detention

Prince Kanu, the younger brother of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has revealed why the agitator remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Prince Kanu described his brother as a “fearless seeker of truth” who is being held because he challenges authority and exposes falsehoods.

“The only reason he is in detention is that he is a fearless seeker of truth who questions lies and stands up to authority,” he wrote.

Prince Kanu’s remarks came amid growing agitation for the release of the IPOB leader. A planned protest tagged #FreeMaziNnamdiKanuNow, spearheaded by activist Omoyele Sowore, has continued to gain traction, drawing support from notable figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

In an earlier post on October 9, the younger Kanu expressed concern over the worsening health condition of his brother, lamenting that some individuals were playing politics with his ailment.

“I spend each day with Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, ensuring he gets all the help he needs. I witness his pain daily,” he wrote. “Those using his health condition for political purposes, especially those opposing his release for proper medical care, will have nowhere to hide.”

He added that the IPOB leader now struggles to walk and moves slowly to avoid collapsing.

Kanu has petitioned Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja to transfer his medical treatment to the National Hospital, alleging inadequate attention at the DSS clinic. His legal team has also accused the DSS of falsifying his medical records.

Justice Omotosho subsequently directed the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to examine Kanu and submit a report before ruling on the transfer request. The absence of that report stalled the trial on October 8, leading to an adjournment until October 16.

The IPOB leader has been in DSS custody since his re-arrest in 2021, facing charges bordering on treasonable felony and terrorism-related offences.