The release of Nnamdi Kanu from detention by a federal high court sitting in Abuja was widely celebrated in the South East. His release followed sustained protest by members of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and intervention by some well-meaning Nigerians across the country.
Shortly after his release, the leader of IPOB commenced an unusual political rally across the South East, albeit in flagrant disregard of his bail conditions. His bail was based on 12 stringent conditions including "refraining from making an appearance in a crowd of more than 10 people".
At most of these rallies, the leader of IPOB made scathing remarks about some leaders including the President, former Presidents, Governors in the South East and members of Ohaneze Ndigbo, a socio-cultural organization in the region. He also exploited such forum to reiterate his call for a referendum that will culminate in the secession of the region.
In a bid to further test his popularity, Kanu has called on Anambrarians to boycott the forthcoming governorship election billed to take place in November. This call has been widely condemned by some leaders especially in the region. They include the governor, Willie Obiano, the Obi of Onitsha and Ohaneze Ndigbo among others.
Undoubtedly, Kanu has demonstrated that he is an emerging political figure in the region. This draws from the number of people that attend his rallies, kneel for his blessings and practically worship him. However, Kanu's insistence that the Anambra gubernatorial elections would be boycotted may be the beginning of his end.
This is because his position would ultimately pitch him against South East leaders who are currently struggling to reassert their political relevance and security agencies that have the mandate of protecting the nation's constitution.
In other climes, Kanu could have built on his rising political profile by fielding a candidate in the Anambra election, defeat the incumbent and build a lasting political dynasty in the region.
Recall that recently, the Acting President held a crucial meeting with leaders in the region. Kanu was excluded because he was not considered as one of the leaders of thought in the region.
By participating and winning the Anambra election, Kanu could consolidate his grip on the region, effect the removal of leaders in the region who are not advancing the interest of Igbos and ultimately become the rallying point when South East affairs are on the table.
Bola Tinubu in the South West started with a relatively regional party in Lagos and within 8 years he had built a political structure capable of dictating events in the region. Today the rest is history.
Instead of insisting on boycotting the election and exposing misguided youths to dangers (currently some of them are confronting security operatives along highways and having their ways), he should galvanize his supporters and work out modalities to become a force to reckon with in Igbo land.
Until he asserts his political relevance in the region, the government will continue to see him as the leader of a misguided group yet to learn from history. He will never be taken seriously.
