UMUAHIA – The American Military Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) has issued a stern warning to Southeast Governors, highlighting the potential for US presidential sanctions due to their alleged inaction regarding the prolonged detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement signed by AVID President, Chief Dr. Sylvester Onyia, and Secretary, Dr. Godson Obiagwu, the group expressed frustration with the governors’ reluctance to formally request Kanu’s release from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as allegedly required by the President. The veterans accused the governors of being complicit in Kanu’s continued incarceration, despite a Nigerian appeals court ruling in his favor.
AVID criticized the governors for failing to present a united front, stating that their passivity obstructed other efforts, including those led by religious and political leaders. The group reminded the governors of the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, which allows the US President to impose sanctions—such as travel bans, asset freezes, and public censure—on foreign officials involved in human rights violations.
The statement warned:
“The continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu mirrors grave human rights violations punishable under the Global Magnitsky Act. Your reluctance to act in this matter could render you complicit and subject to these sanctions, which include denial of visas and blocking of property transactions within the US.”
The veterans underscored Kanu’s advocacy for Southeast security and socio-economic development, urging the governors to reconsider their stance. They argued that the region’s challenges, including insecurity, were exacerbated by their silence and criticized their role in proscribing IPOB—a decision they attributed to bias against the Igbo people during the Buhari administration.
AVID also called on President Tinubu to fulfill promises allegedly made during his campaign, including a pact between his son Seyi Tinubu and Kanu’s family regarding Kanu’s release. The group emphasized the importance of honoring this agreement, asserting that it would rebuild trust with the Igbo nation.
The veterans concluded by urging all Southeast leaders to prioritize unity and justice for the betterment of the region, warning against the long-term consequences of inaction on this critical issue.
