Sowore Engages Speaker Abbas And Deputy Kalu Over Kanu’s Release

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has disclosed that he reached out to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and his deputy, Benjamin Kalu, to push for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Sowore made the revelation in a post on his X handle on Sunday, ahead of the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest set for October 20. He said his move was part of ongoing efforts to secure Kanu’s release through political engagement and public pressure.

According to him, he urged the Speaker and his deputy to take a formal stand by convening an emergency session of the House to pass a resolution demanding that President Bola Tinubu order Kanu’s immediate release.

Sowore stated that Speaker Abbas declined to raise the matter officially, saying it was still before the courts. However, the Speaker reportedly promised to hold private discussions with lawmakers, including Obi Aguocha, who represents Kanu’s constituency, to explore a political settlement. Abbas also hinted that he had previously intervened informally with the Department of State Services (DSS) regarding the case.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, on his part, confirmed that talks were ongoing between the presidency and some lawmakers about a possible political resolution but admitted that the court process had been slow. Sowore said he interpreted this as an attempt by many to hide behind judicial delays.

The activist further revealed that the Abia State House of Assembly had yet to confirm participation in the October 20 protest.

Meanwhile, the Igbo Women Assembly (IWA), led by its National President, Lolo Nneka Chimezie, has declared full support for the nationwide demonstration. In a statement on Saturday, IWA described the planned protest as a moral and just action aimed at restoring fairness and humanity to Nigeria’s justice system.

Chimezie said the group would mobilize women across Igboland and beyond to join the protest, insisting that Kanu’s prolonged detention is a stain on national conscience. She described the IPOB leader as a freedom advocate being punished for speaking against oppression and injustice.

The October 20 protest, spearheaded by Sowore and supported by several civil groups, is expected to intensify calls for the government to free Kanu, whose continued detention remains one of the country’s most polarizing issues.