Chief Dr. Jackson N E Omenazu, a Rivers State indigenous Igbo and newly elected President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, has issued a powerful declaration, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to justice, equity, fairness, and freedom.
In his statement, Omenazu calls upon Nigerians and the international community to stand united in demanding the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Demonstrating his dedication to the cause, Omenazu proclaimed his willingness to exchange his freedom, liberty, and even his life, for the release of Kanu.
This was made known in a statement titled: “I AM READY TO EXCHANGE MY FREEDOM AND LIBERTY FOR NNAMDI KANU’S RELEASE AND PEACE TO BE RESTORED IN IGBO LAND.
FROM THE DESK OF THE NEWLY ELECTED PRESIDENT GENERAL OF OHANAEZE NDIGBO“. Dated January, 8th, 2025.
It reads, “With a heart laden with the weight of history and a spirit ignited by an unyielding desire for justice, equity, fairness and freedom; I, Chief Dr. Jackson N E Omenazu, a Rivers State indigenous Igbo and newly elected President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, extend a clarion call and declaration to every Nigerian and to the world at large; that I stand resolutely prepared to exchange my freedom, my liberty, and, if need be, my very life, in pursuit of the release of our brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
“The restoration of peace in our cherished Igbo land rests upon this pivotal episode.
“In the light of recent developments whereby Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, through his diligent counsel, Mr. Alloy Ejimakor, has rejected the Federal Government’s request for trial proceedings under the current judge, Justice Binta Nyako, I am compelled to address the grave injustices that have transpired. This refusal stems from a well-founded belief that impartiality in his case has been observed by his legal counsel.
“We cannot overlook the higher principle of justice that safeguards our humanity; it is therefore not merely about one man’s freedom but about upholding the integrity and holiness of our judicial system.
“When a jury stands on equitable and justiciable jurisprudence, it becomes an enduring nail piercing hard into the heart of any justice system, linking the present and the future of human mutual coexistence. Dodging the above in the course of justice delivery, breaks the plank in which the judiciary stands, it collapses, it erodes the essence of state existence”
Dr Omenazu Jackson
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organization of over 80 million Igbos across the globe, is unwavering in its conviction to explore every conceivable avenue to secure Kanu’s liberty.
“We recognize the historical precedents set by the Yoruba leadership, exemplified in the release of Sunday Igboho—where steadfast solidarity and bold diplomacy carved pathways to justice. It is incumbent upon us, as guardians of our cultural heritage, to adopt a similar resolute approach, employing innovative and discreet tactics rather than the ineffective, superficial measures that have characterized our past engagements.
“In pursuit of this noble cause, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will embark on a strategic collaboration with all religious organizations active within Igbo land—be they Christian, Muslim, traditional, or Jewish. We shall consecrate the last weekends of each month throughout 2025 as sacred times for prayer, supplication, and ordinances. We will earnestly seek the countenance of God Almighty, imploring divine intervention in the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, other prisoners of conscience in the country for restoration of peace throughout our homeland.
“As the Leader entrusted with the voice of our people, I vow with utmost commitment to this cause.
In the spirit of true leadership, which is defined not by titles but by sacrifices made for the collective good for all humanity and our people, I declare again; I am prepared to sacrifice my personal liberty and comfort for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. This is not just an aspiration; it is an oath I solemnly take as I assume my role as President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide.
“To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu whom I know was once an agitator for political liberty(NADECO), I extend my heartfelt appeal: Please listen to the cries of the Igbo people. I offer myself as a guarantor for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s cooperation post-release, ready to ensure that his return catalyzes healing and reconciliation rather than discord.
We must not allow fear to hinder our collective responsibility; a fear that unfounded in all political calculations because the stability of the Nigeria government will not be destabilized for single action based justice in this instance.
“The challenge before us is profound, yet it is not insurmountable. The advocacy for Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom only serves to underscore the need for a unified front. This sacrifices must be counted as steps toward justice. Let us not shy away from this noble endeavor.
“Therefore, I call upon every Igbo individual, every leader, and every citizen of goodwill to rally together in this quest for justice. Let us remember the sacrifices of our forebears who fought valiantly for our rights and freedoms. Let us unite in purpose and spirit so that our land may once again know peace and security.
“In closing, I reiterate my profound commitment to ensuring that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is released, and I reject complacency in the face of injustice. The destiny of our beloved Igbo nation hinges upon our ability to collectively confront the forces that seek to divide and conquer us. Together, we shall forge a path toward justice, peace, and the eventual restoration of our dignity as a people.
“The purity of the collective aspirations of a people defines their identity and creed”
I said.”
