Mazi Nnamdi Kanu ~ “I AGITATE FOR BIAFRA; IT IS MY RIGHT TO AGITATE.”

The Unyielding Struggle of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and the Biafran libration

           

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s declaration, “I agitate for Biafra; it is my right to agitate,” underscores the universal fight for self-determination—a right enshrined in international law. Yet, his persecution, illegal detention, and Nigeria’s disregard for court rulings and UN directives reveal a troubling erosion of justice. From his extraordinary rendition in 2021 to the indefinite adjournment of his case, Kanu’s plight demands global attention. As the Latin saying goes, "Iniuria uni fit iniuria omnibus"—injustice to one is injustice to all. It’s a call for activists and people of conscience worldwide to rise in solidarity and demand justice. 

“I AGITATE FOR BIAFRA; IT IS MY RIGHT TO AGITATE.”

In a bold declaration during a recent court appearance, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), asserted, “I agitate for Biafra; it is my right to agitate.” This statement underscores the fundamental principle of self-determination, a right enshrined in international law and recognized by Nigeria’s legal framework. Yet, Kanu’s pursuit of this right has been met with persecution, illegal detention, and a blatant disregard for judicial rulings. 

The right to self-determination is explicitly provided for under Article 1 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Article 20 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, both of which Nigeria is a signatory. Despite this, Kanu has faced relentless persecution for advocating the cause of Biafra. His ordeal began with his extraordinary rendition from Kenya in 2021, an act condemned by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which called for his immediate release and compensation. 

 

Nigeria’s own courts have acknowledged the illegality of Kanu’s abduction. In a landmark ruling, the court held that the government could not benefit from its own illegality, referring to the unlawful rendition. Furthermore, the Supreme Court’s discharge and acquittal of Kanu in a related case reaffirmed his innocence. Yet, the Nigerian government continues to detain him, flouting both domestic and international legal standards. 

 

The refusal to replace Justice Binta Nyako, who recused herself from Kanu’s case, and the indefinite adjournment of his trial further highlight the systemic injustice he faces. Kanu’s plight is not just a legal battle but a test of Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and human rights. As he rightly stated, agitation for self-determination is a right, not a crime. The world watches as Nigeria grapples with this fundamental truth. 

 

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s struggle is a reminder that the fight for justice and self-determination cannot be silenced by persecution or illegalities. It is a call for Nigeria and the international community to uphold the principles of justice and human dignity.

 

A Call to Action

To all activists and people of conscience in Nigeria, Africa, and the world at large, the time to speak up is now. "Iniuria uni fit iniuria omnibus"- Injustice to one is injustice to all. We must seize every opportunity, in every forum, to demand justice for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and all those who are oppressed for daring to exercise their fundamental rights. Whether in courtrooms, classrooms, media platforms, or international assemblies, our voices must rise in unison to condemn the persecution of Kanu and the violation of his rights. 

 

For when one person’s rights are trampled upon, the foundation of justice for all is weakened. Speak up, act now, and let the world know that injustice anywhere is indeed a threat to justice everywhere.