Ohanaeze, South-East Leaders Reject Atiku, Sowore’s October 20 Nationwide Protest

A major rift has emerged within the Igbo political and socio-cultural space as the apex socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the South-East governors and Ministers have categorically distanced themselves from the planned October 20, 2025, nationwide protest calling for the unconditional release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Dependable NG reports that the Igbo group, speaking in conjunction with the political leadership of the zone, condemned the protest, which they labelled an “orchestrated” effort by former presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar and Omoyele Sowore. The group views the demonstration with “extreme suspicion,” asserting it is a “thinly veiled attempt at fomenting unrest, destabilizing the government of President Bola Tinubu, and exploiting the legitimate concerns of Ndigbo for nefarious political ends.”

In a statement released on Thursday and signed by the factional Deputy-President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and National Spokesperson, Chief Chinyereze Thompson Ohia, Ohanaeze stated its position.

The statement posited that their intelligence and analysis suggest the planned action is a “cynical ploy designed to instigate a repeat of the EndSARS riots.” They alleged that the scheme is “funded by elements associated with Atiku Abubakar and his cohorts,” whose ultimate aim is to lure unsuspecting Igbo citizens into a “dangerous and destructive venture” and “undermine the current administration.”

Ohanaeze Ndigbo vehemently rejected the political exploitation, declaring, “The sudden and unsolicited display of ‘uneasy affection’ for Igbo causes by individuals previously indifferent or even hostile to our community raises significant red flags.” They urged Ndigbo and all Nigerians to avoid the protests, asserting that the disruption does not serve the interests of the Igbo people or the cause of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

The organization further stressed its preference for an “Advocacy for Peaceful Resolution,” stating that the pursuit of Kanu’s release should continue through political solutions and the established judicial processes. They warned that the “Atiku-Sowore scheme will undoubtedly undermine the ongoing judicial proceedings and the ongoing political discussions and negotiations” currently being handled by a team led by Hon. Obi Aguocha. They concluded with a strong public safety concern, noting the potential for violence and destruction similar to what was tragically witnessed during the EndSARS riots.