Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has dismissed fresh rumours suggesting that the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, signed a deal to secure his release.
Speaking during a mobilization rally ahead of the October 20 peaceful protest in Abuja, Sowore described the reports as “cheap propaganda,” insisting that Kanu remains steadfast and cannot be intimidated or compromised.
“They’ve started another propaganda. They said they asked Kanu to sign some deal. It’s not true. We were with him yesterday, and there’s nothing like that. He is not someone you can intimidate or bribe,” Sowore said.
Sowore also reassured supporters that Nnamdi Kanu is alive and being held at a DSS detention facility in Wawa, Niger State, not killed as some speculated.
“For those worried about their brothers arrested by the DSS, they are alive. They’re being kept in Wawa, Niger State. Many were picked up unjustly because someone wrote a petition calling them IPOB members. We are human beings, not animals,” he added.
The activist urged Nigerians to sacrifice Monday, October 20, and come out en masse for the protest, which will take place in Abuja and other cities across Nigeria.
“Please, on Monday, sacrifice that day. Come to town. If your relatives are in Enugu, Kaduna, or London, let them protest there. We have written to notify the authorities. It’s going to be peaceful.”
Sowore likened the planned march to the biblical fall of Jericho, calling it a symbolic final step toward Kanu’s freedom.
“Those of you who are Christians know the wall of Jericho fell after the people marched around it. That’s what we’re doing on October 20 — marching around Aso Rock Villa until the wall keeping our brother from freedom comes down.”
The activist further alleged corruption within Kanu’s trial process, claiming that large sums were being siphoned off in the guise of legal logistics.
“Each time they take him to court, the DSS makes ₦500 million just to seek adjournment. There’s no evidence, no crime, no reason for a trial. We’re not asking for pardon because there was no crime. We’re asking for his unconditional release.”
He also vowed that those involved in Kanu’s alleged abduction from Kenya would face justice, describing it as a kidnapping case.
The protest, tagged #MNKOctober20, is scheduled to begin by 7:00 a.m. at the Unity Fountain in Abuja, with organizers promising peaceful conduct and coordination across states and abroad.
The rally ended with chants from participants:
“Free Nnamdi Kanu! When do we want it? Now! When do we want it? Now!”
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