The continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has drawn significant criticism from prominent figures and groups across Nigeria, who are advocating for his release and a political resolution to his case. Peter Obi, a presidential aspirant for the 2027 general election, has openly questioned the rationale behind Kanu's prolonged incarceration, stating that it "does not make sense." Obi emphasized his commitment to advocating for a political solution not only for Kanu but for similar cases nationwide. He expressed bewilderment that the IPOB leader remains detained merely for speaking against or insulting those in government, remarking that such criticisms would not personally bother him if he were president, as his primary duty would be to ensure the welfare of the common citizen. Obi also indicated a willingness to engage with various groups, including bandits, to establish peace and then address issues decisively.

Adding to the chorus of condemnation, a group of Igbo leaders has severely criticized the federal government's policy regarding Kanu. They highlighted what they perceive as a glaring hypocrisy: the government's efforts to reintegrate deadly Boko Haram terrorists into society through repentance and amnesty programs, while simultaneously detaining Kanu, an advocate for self-determination. The group also took strong exception to reports of the federal government allegedly offering substantial sums of money to bandits for appeasement, arguing that such tactics undermine governmental authority and national security. In a formal statement, signed by executives from Ambassador for Self-Determination USA, AVID President, and Rising Sun Group, they demanded Kanu's immediate and unconditional release from his four-year incarceration, asserting that if the government could accommodate armed groups, the same gesture should be extended to Kanu, who never waged war against the country.

The Igbo leaders' statement further detailed their outrage, highlighting the “unprecedented display of hypocrisy” where Boko Haram members are rehabilitated while Kanu remains unjustly imprisoned for advocating for his and his people's rights. They called upon the global community to not ignore this injustice, noting that Kanu's detention is fueling international outrage. The indictment of the Kenyan government by the global community for its role in Kanu's illegal abduction on Kenyan soil was lauded as a crucial first step toward justice, with a subsequent call for accountability for all Nigerian and Kenyan operatives involved. They reiterated their unwavering stance for justice, dignity, and the universal right to self-determination, vowing that their collective voice would not be silenced until Kanu is released.

In a related development, public affairs commentator and human rights advocate Chijioke Nwachukwu strongly denounced recent comments made by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, concerning Kanu's potential release. Nwachukwu described Umahi's remarks as "deeply offensive" and a "betrayal of the Igbo people," asserting that they do not represent the true sentiments of the community. This indicates a growing disillusionment and anger within the Igbo community regarding the handling of Nnamdi Kanu's case and broader issues of justice and equity in Nigeria.