Renowned human rights lawyer and political activist, Deji Adeyanju, has voiced strong confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will eventually release Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Adeyanju made the statement through his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, where he claimed that some political figures from the South East region are quietly opposing efforts toward Kanu’s release. Despite these alleged schemes, Adeyanju expressed faith that President Tinubu’s administration will ultimately make a just and reconciliatory decision.

“Tinubu Will Handle Things Differently” — Adeyanju

According to Adeyanju, President Tinubu’s leadership style is notably different from that of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who, he claims, mishandled the situation surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s arrest and detention.

Adeyanju emphasized that the charges against Kanu should have been withdrawn once Tinubu assumed power, arguing that a more inclusive political approach would help heal the wounds caused by years of regional distrust.

In his words:

“I remain confident that President Tinubu will eventually pardon Nnamdi Kanu, regardless of the secret efforts by some South East politicians who don’t want him released. The charges should have been dropped immediately Tinubu took office.”

The activist went further to criticize Buhari’s administration, accusing it of deepening ethnic divisions and turning Kanu into what he described as a “demigod.”

“Late Buhari’s government was one of exclusion and intolerance. His attitude toward the Igbos and the entire handling of the IPOB matter only worsened tensions and made Kanu more popular,” Adeyanju wrote.

Renewed Calls for Political Solution

Adeyanju’s renewed advocacy comes at a time when several Igbo leaders, traditional institutions, and human rights organizations have intensified calls for a political resolution to Nnamdi Kanu’s prolonged detention.

Observers argue that releasing the IPOB leader could pave the way for genuine reconciliation and restore calm in the South East, where separatist activities and insecurity have risen sharply since Kanu’s 2021 rearrest.

Various civic groups and regional stakeholders have repeatedly urged the Federal Government to prioritize dialogue over punishment, insisting that political inclusion, rather than force, offers a sustainable path to peace.

Public Reactions and Political Implications

Adeyanju’s comments have sparked widespread debate on social media. While many Nigerians agree that Kanu’s release could help stabilize the South East, others caution that such a move must follow due legal processes.

Supporters of Adeyanju’s position say Tinubu’s government has an opportunity to demonstrate fairness and national unity by ending what they describe as politically motivated prosecution. On the other hand, critics warn that releasing Kanu without proper judicial review might embolden separatist groups.

Despite these differing opinions, there is a growing consensus among analysts that a political settlement remains the most viable route to long-term peace in the region.

Background: Nnamdi Kanu’s Prolonged Detention

Nnamdi Kanu was first arrested in 2015 on charges related to treasonable felony and terrorism. After being granted bail in 2017, he fled the country but was later rearrested in 2021 under controversial circumstances involving international cooperation.

Since then, he has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), facing multiple legal battles. His lawyers and supporters continue to demand his unconditional release, citing alleged human rights violations and disregard for court orders.

Outlook: Will Tinubu Pardon Kanu?

Adeyanju’s confidence reflects growing optimism that Tinubu’s administration might adopt a more conciliatory approach to resolving national tensions. Many believe that freeing Nnamdi Kanu could signal the beginning of a new era of inclusion, dialogue, and unity across Nigeria’s ethnic divides.

Whether the President will indeed grant Kanu freedom remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — the pressure for a political solution is stronger than ever.