The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has renewed its call for the immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and demanded a compensation of N100 billion for his unconstitutional detention and dehumanisation. The group also urged the federal government to compensate each of the South-East states with N100 billion to address the region’s economic devastation caused by insecurity, mass arrests, and systemic neglect.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA criticised the federal government for its continued disregard for local court rulings and international human rights directives, including those of the United Nations Human Rights Council. The group said Mazi Kanu’s 30 months of detention without lawful cause represent a grave miscarriage of justice that undermines Nigeria’s democracy and respect for the rule of law.

“The prolonged and unconstitutional incarceration of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not just a personal tragedy but a stain on Nigeria’s commitment to justice, human rights, and democratic principles. We call for his immediate and unconditional release, as directed by multiple court rulings, and demand a public apology from the federal government alongside a N100 billion compensation for the dehumanisation he has suffered,” HURIWA stated.

The organisation also noted that Kanu’s detention has exacerbated insecurity in the South-East, resulting in a significant economic downturn for the region. HURIWA estimated that the insecurity triggered by the government’s heavy-handed approach has cost the South-East billions in lost revenue, disrupted education, and heightened unemployment among the youth.

“The economic bleeding of the South-East zone, perpetuated by the unlawful arrests and detention of hundreds of Igbo youths under the guise of belonging to IPOB, has created a climate of fear and instability. This has deterred investments, shuttered businesses, and left millions of people struggling to survive. The federal government must compensate each of the five South-East states with N100 billion to mitigate these economic losses and restore stability,” the statement added.

HURIWA proposed that the compensation funds be managed by the Bank of Industry, with a focus on skills acquisition and economic empowerment initiatives targeting one million youths from each of the five South-East states. The organisation argued that such an approach would provide tangible benefits and ensure that the funds are not misappropriated by political actors, as has been the case with similar initiatives.

“While the federal government has reportedly approved a N300 billion take-off fund for the South-East Development Commission, the history of zonal development commissions such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability. Without strict oversight, this funding could end up being siphoned by politicians and fail to deliver meaningful development. We urge the government to explore alternative mechanisms to ensure effective utilisation of these funds,” HURIWA warned.

The rights group also condemned the violence and insecurity plaguing the South-East, attributing much of the unrest to the federal government’s failure to engage in meaningful dialogue with the region’s stakeholders. HURIWA called for a comprehensive peacebuilding strategy supported by the United Nations to restore security, stability, and economic recovery in the South-East.

“To end the cycle of violence in the South-East, the government must adopt a multi-pronged approach that includes dialogue with aggrieved groups, the release of political detainees, and investments in infrastructure and human capital development. We also call on the United Nations to assist in facilitating peacebuilding efforts and ensuring that justice is served for the people of the South-East,” the statement read.

HURIWA stressed that addressing the grievances of the South-East is essential for Nigeria’s unity and progress. The group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rise above partisan politics and demonstrate statesmanship by initiating policies that promote equity, fairness, and justice across all regions of the country.

“Nigeria cannot afford to continue on the path of exclusion and marginalisation. The federal government must act decisively to address the systemic injustices faced by the South-East and other marginalised regions. Releasing Nnamdi Kanu and compensating the South-East states for their economic losses would be a significant step toward national healing and reconciliation,” HURIWA concluded.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for justice and the protection of human rights, pledging to continue holding the government accountable for its actions and inactions.