2027: Igbo Youths to Tinubu—Free Nnamdi Kanu or Forget South-East Votes

Over 600 members of the All Igbo Youth Forum have drawn a bold political red line for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, declaring that their support in the 2027 general elections depends solely on the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Their demand came during a charged press conference and solidarity rally at Awka Hall in Umuahia on Saturday, June 29, 2025, shortly after Kanu secured a legal victory in Kenya.

A recent ruling by Justice E. C. Mwita of the High Court of Kenya on June 26 described Kanu’s 2021 abduction and extraordinary rendition from Nairobi to Nigeria as “illegal, unconstitutional, and a gross violation of his human rights.” The court held the Kenyan government liable and awarded the IPOB leader 10 million Kenyan shillings in damages.

As news of the judgment broke, youths from the five South-East states took to the streets in jubilation. Led by Chinedum Obilor, President-General of the Forum and a former Deputy Chairman of Umuahia North LGA, they declared that Tinubu’s political future in Igbo land is hanging by a thread. “Forget the empty promises of senators and governors,” Obilor said. “We, the youths, hold the mandate. Free Kanu or forget 2027.”

Obilor warned that the administration’s continued refusal to heed calls from respected Igbo voices such as Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and the late Chief Mbazulike Amaechi is fueling resentment. He stressed that while past efforts for Kanu’s release came from elders, this new push is a youth-led political movement backed by growing anger and resolve.

“You don’t need to bribe us with rice or money,” Obilor declared. “Release Kanu and you have our votes. Refuse, and we’ll align with anyone—north, west, or south—who’s willing to set him free.” He further cautioned Tinubu against relying on “deceitful assurances” from political appointees, whom he accused of losing touch with the people.

The Forum also sounded a strong warning to Igbo politicians exploiting Kanu’s name for political gain. “We are done with leaders who shout ‘Kanu’ for clout and do nothing,” the group said. “Any lawmaker who doesn’t actively fight for his release will be held accountable in 2027.”

This show of defiance signals a significant electoral risk for the APC in the South-East and could shift the tide ahead of the next election. With Kanu’s legal momentum abroad and intensifying youth pressure at home, Tinubu may now be facing one of his toughest balancing acts yet.