Members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) on Monday held coordinated rallies across parts of Nigeria’s South-East to commemorate victims of the January 20, 2017 shootings and to renew calls for the release of their detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The peaceful demonstrations took place simultaneously in Abia, Anambra and Ebonyi states, drawing participants from different age groups, including youths, women and elderly supporters of the pro-Biafra movement.
According to IPOB, the rally coincided with the anniversary of an incident nine years ago when its members were allegedly attacked by security operatives during activities marking the first inauguration of United States President Donald Trump.
The group said the latest gathering was also organised as a solidarity march in remembrance of those killed during that episode.
In a statement issued by its Media and Publicity Directorate, IPOB described the rallies as orderly, noting that participants observed prayers at strategic locations across the three states.
The group said there were no reports of violence during the events.
IPOB said demonstrators carried placards and banners, many bearing images of Nnamdi Kanu, while chanting slogans demanding his immediate and unconditional release from detention.
The group argued that Kanu’s continued incarceration remains a major source of tension in the South-East.
The statement further alleged that insecurity and rights violations persist in the region, accusing authorities of intimidation and repression.
Despite this, IPOB maintained that supporters continue to mobilise peacefully to press their demands.
Beyond calls for Kanu’s release, the group also urged the Federal Government to institute an independent investigation into past killings of its members, including incidents in Port Harcourt and other parts of the country.
It stressed that accountability and justice were essential for lasting peace.
IPOB reiterated its commitment to non-violence and appealed to security agencies to respect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly.
The group also called on the international community to pay closer attention to what it described as a worsening human rights situation in the South-East.
Security agencies were yet to issue an official response to the rally as of the time of filing this report.
