The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused opposition politicians of sponsoring the ongoing #FreeNnamdiKanu protests across parts of the country, describing the demonstrations as “orchestrated tension” and “reckless politics in the streets.”

In a statement issued on Monday, the party’s spokesman, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, dismissed the agitation as a camouflage for political bitterness and an attempt by those “rejected at the polls” to regain relevance by inflaming public sentiment.

“It is the classic case of the hand of Jacob and the voice of Esau,” he said, insisting that the protest is not rooted in justice but in political desperation. “What we are witnessing is not civic activism but a scripted attempt to destabilise the country.”

Oladejo faulted opposition leaders who, according to him, are “endorsing and bankrolling street theatrics” instead of contributing to national stability. He said their actions amounted to exploiting a sensitive national issue for partisan gain.

He added that the agitation was particularly insensitive given the years of insecurity, bloodshed and economic paralysis suffered in the South-East as a result of violent agitations, enforced sit-at-home orders, and criminality.

“At a time when the region is still grieving widows, orphans and broken communities, these political actors have chosen to mock the dead and provoke fresh division. This is not a demand for justice — it is a betrayal,” he stated.

The party maintained that the case of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is a judicial matter and cannot be resolved through “mob pressure or intimidation of state institutions.” It expressed confidence in the competence and independence of the Nigerian judiciary to determine the case.

Oladejo further commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying the Renewed Hope Agenda was repairing the economy and promoting national inclusion. He noted that the South-East has benefitted from infrastructure projects and key national appointments.

The Lagos APC urged security agencies to remain alert and called on leaders in the South-East to reject “politics of bitterness” capable of fracturing the country.

“There must be a limit to how far politicians can go in weaponising public emotion,” Oladejo warned.