A former Executive Chairman of Ukwa East Local Government Area, Abia State, Hon. Chuks Wabara, has strongly condemned the Federal High Court judgment that sentenced the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to life imprisonment.
In a statement dated November 21, 2025, and made available to newsmen, by Wabara reads:
“Date: 21st November, 2025
SUBJECT: STRONG CONDEMNATION OF THE LIFE IMPRISONMENT JUDGMENT ON MAZI NNAMDI KANU
I hereby lend my voice today and with a profound sense of outrage and disappointment to vehemently condemn the recent judgment by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which sentenced Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment.
This judgment is not only a grave miscarriage of justice but also a dangerous escalation in the systematic suppression of dissent and the legitimate agitation against the decades-long political and economic marginalization of the Igbo people. As a former Chairman and a respected voice in our community, I urge we add our voice to the growing chorus of condemnation
It is crucial to state unequivocally that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not a terrorist. He is a freedom fighter who has consistently and courageously articulated the pains and frustrations of our people. The label of terrorism has been weaponized to criminalize a struggle for self-determination that is recognized and protected under international law. The United Nations Charter, in Article 1, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights both affirm the right of all peoples to self-determination. In the worst-case scenario, this right is a fundamental principle of international justice, not a crime.
The judgment by Justice Omotosho blatantly ignores the earlier ruling of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which called for Kanu’s immediate and unconditional release. It also dismisses the clear stance of the Court of Appeal, which had previously quashed the terrorism charges against him and barred any further trial. This latest ruling demonstrates a disturbing disregard for the rule of law and the principles of fair hearing, painting a picture of a judiciary acting under political influence rather than in the interest of justice.
The continuous persecution of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is a festering wound that deepens the feeling of alienation among Ndi Igbo. This judgment will not bring peace or security to the Southeast; instead, it will only fuel further anger, resentment, and a sense of hopelessness. True peace can only be built on a foundation of justice, dialogue, and addressing the root causes of the agitation.
I therefore implore the President to use your good office and influence to:
Publicly condemn this unjust judgment.
Lobby fellow leaders and representatives at both state and national levels to demand a political, not a judicial, solution to the issue of Biafra agitation.
Advocate for the Federal Government to obey the existing court orders and the UN directive for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release.
The path to lasting peace in our region lies in dialogue and addressing the structural imbalances in our federation. Punishing a man for giving voice to the grievances of millions is not the answer.
I trust that you will stand on the right side of history and lend your voice to this call for justice.
Yours sincerely,
Hon. Chuks Wabara. Former Executive Chairman Ukwa East LGA.”
