The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) has described the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, as an “unregistered political party” that is not recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
In a statement issued by its National President, Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, the group claimed that Kanu wields significant political influence in parts of the South-East, suggesting that he commands a level of support comparable to a political platform among the Igbo populace.
The OYC further argued that political movements and affiliations in the region may struggle to gain traction without Kanu’s involvement or release, asserting that his continued detention could affect voting patterns in future elections, particularly in 2027.
According to the statement, the council warned that major political parties, including the All Progressives Congress, may face challenges securing substantial votes in the South-East if the situation remains unresolved.
The group also claimed that political office holders in the region risk losing support if perceived to have distanced themselves from Kanu’s cause, describing him as a central figure in contemporary Igbo political sentiment.
The statement concluded by urging political stakeholders to take into account the influence of regional sentiments ahead of future elections, while maintaining that developments in the South-East political landscape remain closely tied to Kanu’s status.
