Massive Peaceful Protest in Aba Demands Unconditional Release of IPOB Leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on January 20, 2026

 Massive Peaceful Protest in Aba Demands Unconditional Release of IPOB Leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on January 20, 2026 Thousands of residents fr...

 Massive Peaceful Protest in Aba Demands Unconditional Release of IPOB Leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on January 20, 2026

Thousands of residents from Nigeria's Eastern Region converged on the streets of Aba today in a large-scale, peaceful demonstration calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The protest, which unfolded amid chants and processions, also served as a commemoration of the lives lost nine years ago during similar rallies marking the inauguration of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Eyewitness accounts and live footage from the scene described crowds gathering in significant numbers, marching through key areas of Aba while emphasizing their commitment to non-violence. Protesters repeatedly declared, "We are peace-loving people," appealing to the international community to witness their demands. They insisted that Kanu, often referred to as "our leader" and "our son," has committed no crime known to law and must be freed without conditions.

One participant voiced the collective sentiment: "Let the international community bear witness, we are peace-loving people. We have come out to demand the release of our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. Free Mazi Nnamdi Kanu now."

The demonstration highlighted ongoing calls for justice and self-determination, with some protesters explicitly linking their message to the aspiration for a "free Republic of Biafra." Held on the symbolic date of January 20 — marking the ninth anniversary of the 2017 incident in which IPOB supporters allege scores of their members were killed by security forces during Trump solidarity rallies — today's event renewed focus on Kanu's prolonged detention.

Kanu, who faces terrorism and treason-related charges, remains in custody despite various court rulings, including a 2022 Court of Appeal decision that discharged him (later overturned by the Supreme Court). Supporters argue his continued incarceration is politically motivated and contravenes principles of justice.

The Aba protest appeared to proceed without reported incidents of violence or heavy security disruption, contrasting with past nationwide demonstrations in 2025 that faced police intervention in places like Abuja. Today's action was largely confined to the South-East, aligning with IPOB's framing as "Trump Solidarity" rallies across Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi states, where similar peaceful marches occurred.

As the Biafran movement continues to mobilize, this latest demonstration underscores persistent demands for Kanu's release and broader calls for addressing perceived marginalization in Nigeria's South-East region. Protesters urged global attention, stating: "Free Mazi Nnamdi Kanu now — that is what we are demanding today, January 20, 2026."

The event was captured in real-time videos and shared widely on social media, amplifying the message far beyond Aba's streets.