Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), experienced another setback on May 20, 2024, as a Nigerian judge denied his bail application for the second time in two months. Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his arrest in Kenya in 2021, facing seven counts of terrorism.

In today’s court proceedings, Kanu addressed Justice Binta Nyako, insisting he had not breached his 2017 bail terms. He explained that he fled Nigeria for his safety after soldiers invaded his home in 2017. Despite his arguments, the court denied his request for bail.

In a dramatic moment, Kanu declared that he would not stand trial in any Nigerian court following the denial of his bail. This bold statement underscores the ongoing tension between Kanu’s IPOB movement and the Nigerian government. IPOB advocates for the secession of southeastern Nigeria, where the majority of the population are Igbo people. This situation harks back to the region’s attempt to secede as the Republic of Biafra in 1967, which resulted in a devastating civil war.

Reactions to Kanu’s courtroom declarations have been mixed. Many have described his move as brilliant and fearless, applauding his defiance and steadfastness. On the other hand, some argue that if the government has no substantial evidence against him, Kanu should be released.

The Nigerian government maintains that Kanu poses a significant threat due to his secessionist activities, which they believe could destabilise the region. Supporters of Kanu argue that his imprisonment is politically motivated and that his calls for independence represent legitimate grievances of the Igbo people.

As the legal and political saga continues, the case of Nnamdi Kanu remains a focal point of national and international attention. The outcomes of these proceedings will likely have profound implications for the future of Nigeria’s unity and the ongoing quest for self-determination by various ethnic groups.