The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has publicly condemned the proposed protest advocating the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). According to the party, the planned demonstration is misguided, opportunistic, and undermines the rule of law.
Lagos APC’s Position
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Seye Oladejo, the party described the protest — spearheaded by activist Omoyele Sowore — as “both baffling and laughable,” pointing out that Sowore has no cultural or political connection to the South-East.
The statement questioned Sowore’s intentions, asking why he appeared more concerned about the matter than the region directly involved. It further stressed that the issue of Kanu’s detention is already before a competent court, and therefore should not be turned into a street battle.
Oladejo accused Sowore of hypocrisy, stating that although he often claims to defend democracy and the rule of law, he is now resorting to street mobilization rather than legal channels.
“Matters before the court are not to be tried on the streets. The rule of law must take its full course,” he said.
The party also stated that the Igbo people do not need an outsider to define their interests, warning that such a protest risks reducing a sensitive legal matter to a political spectacle.
“Ndigbo do not need a political wanderer in borrowed robes to define their interests or struggles. They know their leaders and can engage the system with wisdom and dignity — not with Sowore’s brand of social-media dramatics.”
Context and Concerns
The planned protest is taking place against the backdrop of long-running debates over the detention and legal status of Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB’s activities. Lagos APC’s response signals its concern that the protest could trigger unrest, even though the party acknowledges the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
By emphasizing the role of the judiciary, the Lagos APC is positioning itself as favoring legal processes over public demonstrations. The party noted that protests can easily be hijacked or turn chaotic, a concern informed by past large-scale demonstrations in the state.
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