HURIWA Backs Sowore’s Protest For Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has thrown its weight behind the planned peaceful protest led by human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said the association supports any lawful and peaceful initiative aimed at securing Kanu’s freedom and promoting justice, fairness, and respect for court orders.

Onwubiko said the association was concerned about recent comments attributed to the Presidency suggesting that Kanu “will get what he deserves,” describing such remarks as insensitive and unhelpful in efforts to promote national unity and reconciliation.

“Statements like that do not help the peace process,” Onwubiko said. “What Nigeria needs now is justice and inclusion, not rhetoric that may deepen mistrust among its citizens.”

He stressed that Kanu’s continued detention despite several court rulings in his favor undermines public confidence in the judicial system and the rule of law.

“The courts have spoken on this matter, and justice must not only be done but seen to be done. Selective application of justice sends a dangerous message about equality before the law,” HURIWA noted.

The association called on President Bola Tinubu to use his office to promote dialogue and national healing, rather than allowing political or ethnic sentiments to influence legal decisions.

“President Tinubu should take steps toward resolving this issue politically and humanely. Freeing Nnamdi Kanu will ease tensions in the South-East and open a window for genuine national dialogue,” the statement added.

HURIWA also urged government officials to refrain from making statements that could inflame ethnic or political divisions, noting that responsible leadership requires restraint and fairness in handling sensitive national issues.

“Public officials must show sensitivity and commitment to the peace process. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and no group should feel alienated or unfairly targeted,” Onwubiko said.

The group further commended Omoyele Sowore and other civil rights advocates for promoting peaceful engagement and constitutional means in seeking redress for perceived injustices.

“Peaceful protest is a democratic right, and no citizen should be harassed for exercising that right. We encourage the security agencies to respect the rights of citizens and protect demonstrators during the protest,” HURIWA said.

Onwubiko emphasized that the association’s support for Sowore’s initiative is rooted in its long-standing commitment to human rights and justice for all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation.

“Our position is not about politics; it’s about principle. Justice must be the same for everyone, whether rich or poor, from the North or the South. That is the foundation of national unity,” the association stated.

HURIWA called on the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to ensure Kanu’s rights are protected, including access to medical care and fair hearing, in line with international human rights standards.

The association reiterated its call for calm and lawful conduct during the planned protest, urging all participants to avoid violence or inflammatory rhetoric.

“We appeal to everyone joining the protest to remain peaceful and law-abiding. The goal is justice, not confrontation,” Onwubiko added.