Detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu asserted that violence in the Southeast would cease if he were released, following a denial of bail by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja. Nyako approved an accelerated hearing of Kanu's case instead. Kanu suggested that his detention was fueling unrest in the region, attributing it to individuals in government and those misusing the IPOB name.
Kanu stated, "Anybody committing crime in the Southeast cannot go free. They are doing it because I am in the DSS custody. If I were to be outside, nobody could try this." He accused some government officials of complicity and profiting from the insecurity. Kanu expressed confidence that his influence could swiftly end the unrest if he were released, emphasizing his authority within the region.
The IPOB leader faces charges of treasonable felony and terrorism-related offenses. He informed the court that he faced restrictions in freely consulting with his lawyers during their visits. Kanu also highlighted his health challenges, removing his Liverpool sports gear in court to reveal parts of his armpit to emphasize his condition.
Justice Nyako dismissed Kanu's fresh bail application, stating that she had already rejected a previous one. She advised Kanu to appeal the earlier decision on his bail. The judge also rejected Kanu's request for unrestricted visitation rights in custody.
