By ABDULKABIR MUHAMMED

The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), a human rights and pro-democracy organisation, has commended the proposed Sowore-led rally calling for the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu in Abuja. In a statement signed by FENRAD's Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, and dated 9 October 2025, the rights group describes the call for Nnamdi Kanu's release as "timely and necessary."

They also declared support for all democratic institutions, calling for the IPOB leader's release in line with national and international laws.

"As part of our long-standing commitment to the promotion of civil liberties, justice, and the rule of law, FENRAD views this rally as both timely and necessary, given the continued detention of Mazi Kanu despite multiple court orders in his favour and mounting national and international pressure.

"We align with all democratic voices demanding that the Nigerian government respect its own judiciary and adhere to its obligations under the Nigerian Constitution and relevant international human rights protocols," the statement reads.

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been arrested and detained by the federal government of Nigeria since his extradition in 2021 by the Kenyan government. However, FENRAD has condemned the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, arguing that such an action sets "a dangerous precedent and undermines the credibility of our judicial system."

FENRAD has praised the efforts by Southeast lawmakers, especially Hon. Obinna Agwuocha, while arguing that a coordinated, collective action was imminent.

"We particularly commend the encouraging response from Hon. Obinna Agwuocha of the House of Representatives and the stated intention of members of the Abia State House of Assembly to approach the Attorney General of the Federation in pursuit of lawful redress. These efforts, though commendable, must now move beyond dialogue to coordinated, collective action."

The organisation has also commended Omoyele Sowore, a prominent human rights activist, while emphasising the relevance of civil society group in what it describes as the "moment to act boldly and publicly."

"We commend the courage and consistency of Mr Omoyele Sowore, and call on other human rights defenders, lawmakers, civil society actors, and well-meaning Nigerians to join this peaceful rally in Abuja as a demonstration of national unity in defence of justice," they announced.

While mobilising its members and partner organisations to participate in the rally, FENRAD is also demanding an unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, respect for judicial authority, and adherence to court rulings. The group is also calling for a halt to "the political persecution of individuals exercising legitimate rights to self-expression and peaceful advocacy."

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