The Arewa Take-It-Back Movement (ATIB), a prominent coalition of youth, activists, and civil society leaders from Northern Nigeria, has declared its full support for the ongoing movement demanding the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement issued by Lead Coordinator Comrade Nazif Bashi, the group stressed that its decision to stand with the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest reflects a collective demand for justice and adherence to the rule of law.
ATIB strongly asserted that Kanu’s prolonged detention since June 2021—despite multiple court rulings, including the October 2022 Court of Appeal judgment ordering his release—undermines Nigeria’s democracy.
The Northern group emphasized that the issue is a national concern, not a regional one. “This is not an Igbo issue; it is a national crisis that endangers every Nigerian’s liberty,” the statement read. ATIB drew parallels between the injustice faced by the IPOB leader and the broader suppression of citizens in regions like Plateau, Benue, Southern Kaduna, and Borno, as well as the growing misuse of the Cybercrimes Act to silence dissent.
The group call the government to respect citizens’ constitutional rights.
“To the federal government and security agencies: honour the courts, uphold the Constitution, and permit peaceful assembly,” the group said.
Therefore , the movement urged all Arewa youth, students, and traders across the country to participate in peaceful demonstrations, arguing that Nigeria’s unity must be rooted in justice, not oppression.
ATIB’s demanded, the immediate and unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu; compliance with all judicial rulings pertaining to his case; access to medical care and humane treatment; and repeal of repressive laws like the Cybercrimes Act.
