Former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has called on South-East leaders, including Peter Obi, Anambra Governor Charles Soludo, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, and Abia Governor Alex Otti, to take part in a peaceful march to Aso Rock demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a post on his official X account on Tuesday, Sowore urged governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and all Nigerians who support Kanu’s freedom to move beyond talk and actively join the demonstration. He vowed to personally lead the march.

“No more empty noise,” Sowore stated, emphasizing the need for a united, legal, and visible effort to end what he called Kanu’s “persecution.” He stressed setting aside political differences to focus on the cause.

Kanu’s terrorism trial recently encountered a setback when Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed his no-case submission. The court ruled that the prosecution’s evidence, including testimony from five witnesses, established a prima facie case, requiring Kanu to enter his defense.

The trial has been adjourned to October 8, awaiting a report from the Nigerian Medical Association on Kanu’s health, which will guide the scheduling of the next hearing.

Sowore’s appeal adds fresh pressure on South-East leaders, as Kanu’s detention continues to be a flashpoint in Nigeria’s complex socio-political environment.