Renowned Niger Delta leader, Asari Dokubo, has strongly opposed the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), asserting that it would amount to rewarding criminal behavior.

Recall that Kanu, who is currently facing terrorism charges, has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest in 2021.

Back in 2017, a Federal High Court in Abuja had granted Kanu bail, but he willfully violated the conditions and subsequently fled the country. Despite mounting pressure for Kanu’s release, President Muhammadu Buhari had remained firm in resisting such demands. However, with a new administration in power, fresh calls for the IPOB leader’s freedom have emerged.

During his meeting with President Bola Tinubu, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State had also joined in requesting for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.

Recently, following a conversation with President Tinubu, Asari Dokubo addressed reporters, expressing his belief that Kanu should be held accountable by the law.

Dokubo highlighted the potential dangers of releasing Kanu, citing his alleged involvement in aggravating the EndSars protests. According to Dokubo, Kanu had been freely roaming during the EndSars movement and had even exacerbated the situation.

Dokubo raised the question of the lives lost during the unrest, referring to Kanu as a criminal who should face the legal consequences of his actions.

“His release would fuel impunity; during EndSars, Nnamdi Kanu was walking free. What did he do? He poured petrol on the flames of EndSars. Now, he has been caught. What of the people who have died? This is a criminal. He should face the law.

“Releasing Nnamdi Kanu is rewarding criminality and rewarding gruesome murder of innocent people. He should face the law for the actions and instigations he has carried out,” he said.

Recall that Dokubo’s assertion to Tinubu that the military and influential groups were responsible for rampant oil theft in the country.

Dokubo offered the assistance of his followers to combat and put a stop to it. He expressed his willingness to utilise his group of loyal supporters, known as “his boys,” to take the necessary actions to halt these nefarious activities.