The All Igbo Youth Forum has stated that their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections depends solely on the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
This declaration was made during a press briefing and solidarity rally held at Awka Hall in Umuahia, where over 300 youths from across the South-East gathered to celebrate Kanu’s recent legal victory in Kenya.
The event culminated in a spirited street march filled with chants and songs backing Kanu.
Their gathering came just days after a landmark ruling by the High Court in Nairobi on June 26, which found that Kanu’s 2021 abduction and transfer from Kenya to Nigeria was illegal and violated his fundamental human rights.
Justice E.C. Mwita held the Kenyan government and its security forces responsible, awarding Kanu 10 million Kenyan shillings in damages.
Calling the judgment a “historic affirmation” of Kanu’s rights, the youth group urged President Tinubu to act swiftly on the long-standing demand for his release.
Hon. Chinedum Obilor, also known as Fayose Ohuhu and President General of the All Igbo Youth Forum, spoke on behalf of the group.
A former Deputy Chairman of Umuahia North Local Government, Obilor warned that the political fate of Tinubu in the South-East would rest entirely on his response to the Kanu issue.
“No one should mislead Mr. President with hollow promises from political elites,” Obilor said.
“It’s not the senators or governors who hold sway in Igbo land it’s the youth. If Kanu is released, we’ll stand with you. If not, we’ll back any candidate who promises to do so, no matter their background.”
Obilor underscored that among young people in the region, securing Kanu’s freedom is the single most important issue.
He cautioned that continued neglect of their demand could have serious repercussions for the Tinubu administration.
“Our leaders are giving you a false sense of control. They no longer speak for us,” he warned.
Read Also: Terrorism Charges: Nnamdi Kanu’s trial moved to DSS headquarters
“If you ignore us again, expect a repeat of what happened in the last elections.”
He also referenced prior, unheeded appeals from prominent Igbo figures like Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and the late Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, emphasizing that this time the message comes directly from the youth, and cannot be brushed aside.
The group further cautioned Igbo politicians against exploiting Kanu’s name for political gains.
“We won’t tolerate anyone using Kanu for political games anymore,” they stated.
“Those in office were elected by us, and we can just as easily withdraw our support.”
The firm position taken by the All Igbo Youth Forum reflects a shift in regional dynamics, marking a surge in youth-led political engagement.
With mobilization growing rapidly, their stance could significantly influence electoral outcomes and alliances leading up to 2027.
 in the 2027 general elections depends solely on the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).){kind=link}