Deteriorating Health of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu: South East Governors, National Assembly members to intervene

By Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor

In light of the alarming reports surrounding the deteriorating health condition of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has issued a passionate appeal to South East Governors and members of the National Assembly representing the region to urgently intervene and facilitate his release.

FENRAD, a prominent civil rights and advocacy group, expressed deep concern over the continued detention of Kanu despite several court rulings, as well as growing concerns about his health and access to adequate medical care.

In a strongly worded statement, the organization emphasized that the life and well-being of any Nigerian citizen—regardless of political or ideological stance—must be protected under the law.

“His right to life and health must be respected.”

According to FENRAD, reports emerging from the Department of State Services (DSS) custody indicate that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s health has significantly worsened, raising fears of a possible medical emergency if immediate action is not taken.

Good. “We cannot ignore the clear signs of medical neglect. The Nigerian state owes it a duty—both morally and constitutionally—to ensure that Mazi Kanu is not allowed to die in custody. This is not just about politics; this is about human rights,” the statement read.

The group called on the five South East Governors and federal lawmakers from the region to rise above political divides and take concrete steps toward securing Kanu’s release on health and humanitarian grounds.

FENRAD further reminded the government of previous court orders that have granted him bail, which have yet to be implemented.

FENRAD also extended its appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to demonstrate statesmanship by directing the Attorney General and relevant judicial authorities to review the legal process surrounding Kanu’s case with a view to facilitating his release.

“President Tinubu has a golden opportunity to demonstrate a commitment to national healing, unity, and justice. Releasing Kanu under strict legal conditions would not only de-escalate tensions in the South East but also pave the way for inclusive dialogue and peace-building.”

FENRAD urged elected officials, especially from the South East geopolitical zone, not to remain silent in the face of what it described as “systemic injustice.” The group reminded the legislators that their silence could be seen as complicity, and that true representation means standing up for the rights and welfare of their constituents—regardless of political sensitivity.

As tensions continue to simmer in the South East over Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s prolonged detention, the call from FENRAD adds to the growing voices demanding justice, equity, and a humane approach to resolving the crisis. Whether or not the political leadership in the region heeds this call remains to be seen—but the cost of inaction may be too high.

For a peaceful and united Nigeria, justice must not only be done—it must be seen to be done.

Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor is an Environmental Justice campaigner, Good Governance Advocate and Human Rights Activist
&
Executive Director
Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD Nigeria
Tel:/WhatsApp 08033383708,07062949232, organization official WhatsApp: 08029860848.
Email; fenradnigeria@yahoo.com