The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly condemned the ongoing #FreeNnamdiKanu protest, describing it as a politically motivated agitation orchestrated by opposition figures seeking to exploit national issues for personal gain.
In a statement issued on Monday, APC Lagos spokesman Mogaji (Hon) Seye Oladejo said while freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fundamental democratic rights, the current protest “is far from a legitimate call for justice.”
He described the demonstrations, especially across the South East, as “reckless politics” and a “desperate attempt by opposition leaders to regain relevance after electoral defeat.”
Oladejo accused certain opposition figures of endorsing and sponsoring the street protests under the guise of activism, likening the actions to the Biblical phrase, “hand of Jacob, voice of Esau,” suggesting deceitful manipulation. He warned that political gains cannot be achieved through unrest in the streets.
The APC also criticized the organizers for their insensitivity to the South East, a region still grappling with insecurity, kidnappings, and the social and economic impact of previous violent agitations.
Oladejo said the protests dishonor the memories of victims and undermine the sacrifices of widows, orphans, and communities affected by past unrest.
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Highlighting the human cost, the Lagos APC noted that ordinary citizens in the region have faced restrictions on trade, transport, and education due to fear of violence.
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“Instead of helping to heal these wounds, political opportunists are fanning the embers of division,” the statement read.
The party reaffirmed that the case of Nnamdi Kanu remains a matter before the courts and stressed confidence in Nigeria’s judiciary to deliver justice independently, without pressure from street demonstrations.
Oladejo also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for efforts to promote national unity and economic growth through the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting the South East’s inclusion in key national positions and development projects.
He urged all Nigerians, particularly thought leaders in the South East, to reject the “antics of those who traffic in bitterness” and embrace cooperation and peace.
“True progress will come not from chaos, but from cooperation and peace. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we must not allow political desperation to tear it apart,” the Lagos APC statement concluded.
