Sowore Meets Ex-President Jonathan in Abuja Over Nnamdi Kanu
On Friday, human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore held a private meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja regarding the detention and ongoing trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), who is being held by the Department of State Services (DSS) on terrorism-related charges. 0
Purpose of the Meeting
Sowore said the meeting was convened to seek Jonathan’s moral support and political engagement over what he described as a “critical national issue.” 1 He emphasized that Jonathan acknowledged the urgency and gravity of the matter and agreed that it should be addressed “decisively and justly.” 2
What Was Agreed
After the meeting, Sowore revealed that Jonathan would not issue a public statement immediately, but committed to privately engaging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the matter. 3 In his social media post, Sowore stated:
Sowore added that Jonathan’s willingness to engage the Presidency places him among a growing number of Nigerians calling for justice and fairness in the Kanu case. 5
Planned Protest & Wider Advocacy
The meeting takes place amid growing national calls for Kanu’s release. Sowore has scheduled a peaceful march — dubbed “#FreeNnamdiKanuNow” — to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja on October 20, 2025 to demand Kanu’s unconditional release. 6 He urged political, ethnic, and civil society leaders — including Peter Obi, Governors Soludo, Alex Otti, Nwifuru, Peter Mbah, Hope Uzodimma, and Oby Ezekwesili, as well as John Mbata of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide — to join the cause. 7
Context & Stakes
Nnamdi Kanu was initially arrested in Nigeria in 2015 on charges including treasonable felony and terrorism, later released on bail in 2017, fled abroad, and was re-arrested in Kenya in 2021 before being extradited to Nigeria. 8 His detention has sparked controversies over legal process, human rights, and federal authority. 9
Next Steps & Expectations
- Jonathan is expected to meet President Tinubu privately to press for intervention in the Kanu case. 10
- Sowore’s planned October 20 march may amplify pressure on the government. 11
- Further statements may emerge from civil society, legal teams, and political figures. 12
The meeting signals a strategic push by Kanu’s advocates to engage high-level former officeholders, expand political pressure, and compel executive action at the federal level.