Ohaneze Youth Council Rejects Judgement On Nnamdi Kanu,Calls For Appeal

The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), the apex sociocultural youth organization of Igbo extraction, has strongly criticized the judgment delivered by Justice James Kolawole Omotosho on 20 November 2025, which led to the conviction of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, the National President of OYC, Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, described the ruling as a “miscarriage of justice” and alleged that it does not reflect the principles of fairness and the rule of law. He said the judgment had generated deep concern among many Igbo people who view it as discriminatory and politically motivated. According to the OYC, the decision sends a troubling signal that Kanu and the wider Igbo community are being unfairly profiled. “Advocating for self-determination or a referendum should not be equated with terrorism,” Igboayaka stated, adding that the ruling could heighten tensions if not addressed responsibly. The OYC maintained that the defense team presented no evidence that justified labeling Kanu or the Igbo people as threats to national security. The group insisted that peaceful agitation and political expression must be protected under democratic principles. Comrade Igboayaka urged Nnamdi Kanu and his legal team to explore all constitutional options, including approaching the Court of Appeal, to challenge what he termed a “tribalistic judgment.” He expressed confidence that higher courts would correct any possible miscarriage of justice. The organization also cautioned the Federal Government against actions capable of provoking unrest, stressing the need for sensitivity, national cohesion, and adherence to due process. Igboayaka noted that many Igbo people remain committed to the ideals of self-preservation and cultural identity, and therefore government policies must reflect fairness, equity, and respect for human rights. He emphasized that Nigeria’s unity would be strengthened not by repression but through justice, dialogue, and inclusiveness. The OYC reiterated its commitment to peaceful engagement and urged all parties—including the Nigerian and British governments—to ensure that legal and diplomatic processes are handled in ways that promote stability rather than deepen grievances.