NANS Stages Protest, Demands Immediate Release of Nnamdi Kanu

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) on Wednesday held a peaceful protest in Abuja, demanding the unconditional release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Led by its National President, Comrade Atiku Isah (GCNS), the student body expressed deep concern over what it described as “injustice” surrounding Kanu’s continued detention despite court rulings that had previously granted him bail.

Speaking during the demonstration, Isah said:
“We find it difficult to understand why Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is still in detention when courts of competent jurisdiction have granted him bail before. Justice delayed is justice denied.”

He accused the government of double standards in handling matters of national concern, noting that while armed groups were being engaged in dialogue, Kanu remained in custody.

“A few weeks ago, bandits openly displayed dangerous weapons while sitting with government representatives to negotiate peace after killing innocent citizens and destroying property. Yet, Mazi Kanu, who only demanded fair treatment for his people, is being treated like a criminal,” Isah stated.

NANS emphasized that freedom of expression is a fundamental right, warning that silence in the face of injustice would undermine the unity of the country.

“It is the right of every aggrieved Nigerian to speak out. NANS will continue to resist injustice because an injury to one is an injury to all,” the student leader added.

Marking October 1 as a significant day for reflection on Nigeria’s democratic journey, the students appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter.

“Today, being October 1, is historic, and we urge President Tinubu to grant our request in the interest of justice, peace, and national unity,” Isah appealed.

The protest ended peacefully, with the students vowing to sustain their demand until, in their words, “justice is served” and Nnamdi Kanu—detained since 2021—is released.