Renowned human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has strongly condemned the disproportionate military presence deployed against peaceful protesters in Aba during Thursday's "Free Nnamdi Kanu 1 Million March," highlighting the Nigerian government's continued pattern of militarizing civil demonstrations while ignoring genuine security threats.

Image source: Daily Post Nigeria

Speaking to the crowd of protesters who gathered to welcome him to Aba, Sowore questioned why such massive security deployment was necessary against peaceful citizens exercising their constitutional right to protest, when the same resources should be directed toward combating Boko Haram and Lakurawa terrorists who pose actual threats to Nigerian security.

Call for Justice Transcends Ethnic Lines

The activist emphasized his participation was driven purely by principles of justice and equity, stating: "I am only for justice, I don't care if you are Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa. Nigeria cannot thrive when one tribe is treated differently from the other." This statement underscores the broader national implications of the Biafran struggle for self-determination and equal treatment under the law.

Sowore described Mazi Nnamdi Kanu as "a leader, brother and father who should be freed," while making clear he was not the organizer of the protest but felt compelled to participate due to his commitment to justice. He demanded Kanu's release before Easter, declaring: "Mazi Nnamdi Kanu must spend Easter with us, he has suffered enough."

Resilient Protest Despite Intimidation

Despite attempts by security forces to disperse the gathering at Faulks road, demonstrators regrouped in larger numbers at the Samek area of Aba, showcasing the unwavering determination of Biafrans to demand justice for their leader. This resilience in the face of state intimidation reflects the deep-rooted commitment to the cause of Biafran self-determination.

The peaceful nature of the protest contrasts sharply with the heavy-handed military response, raising questions about the proportionality of force deployed against citizens exercising their fundamental rights. In Umuahia, the state capital remained calm with regular police patrols maintaining order, demonstrating that heavy military presence was unnecessary for public safety.