The United States Military Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVIDUSA) have strongly called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Additionally, they are advocating for the restoration of Nigeria’s regional autonomy as outlined in the 1960/63 constitutional framework.
AVIDUSA, a prominent organization made up of former U.S. military members of Igbo heritage, believes that the current political and security situation in Nigeria is untenable and could lead to severe instability. They argue that reverting to the 1960/63 regional autonomy model would foster more balanced governance and address longstanding issues.
In a statement issued by Chief Dr. Sylvester Onyia, the President, and disseminated by Secretary Dr. Godson Obiagwu, the group emphasized that Nigeria’s socio-economic and security challenges could be effectively tackled by returning to the 1960/63 regional autonomy system.
The statement highlighted past demands made by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in 2017 after his release from illegal detention. Kanu had requested the transformation of Enugu into a grade one international airport, the dredging of the River Niger to reduce importation losses, and the upgrading of Owerri Airport to a cargo hub. He also called for the full operation of Port Harcourt Sea Ports and the revival of moribund industries in the South-East and South-South regions to create job opportunities.
Onyia explained that Kanu had warned of a potential referendum on Biafra’s status if these issues were not addressed. Despite these demands, Kanu agreed to support restructuring under the 1960/63 Constitution after a discussion with Professor Ben Nwabueze, who advocated for a restructured Nigeria. However, shortly after, security forces raided Kanu’s home, resulting in the deaths of twenty-eight individuals.
Onyia criticized those who labeled Kanu a terrorist without understanding his true intentions. He recounted the suffering endured by Biafrans and the impact on Kanu’s family. He underscored that the push for restructuring, which includes the establishment of the South-East Development Commission, stems from the advocacy of IPOB and its leader.
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