Nnamdi Kanu: OYC Directs Shutdown Of Igbo Firms, Markets

The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) has issued a directive for the closure of all Igbo-owned shops, markets, and businesses across the country on Monday, October 20, 2025, in solidarity with the protest rally demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB).

Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, National President of the Council, issued the directive in a statement made available to National Newsbreak on Tuesday.

Human rights activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore is leading a protest march on the fateful day to demand the immediate and unconditional release of Kanu, who has been incarcerated since 2021.

According to Igboayaka, the closure of businesses is a moral and patriotic duty, a peaceful declaration that the Igbo nation stands firmly with truth, justice, and the rule of law.

“We cannot continue business as usual while a son of Igboland remains unjustly detained, despite multiple court judgments ordering his release,” he stated.

The OYC boss enjoined Igbos residing in or visiting Abuja on the day of the protest rally to join the Sowore-led peaceful protest march to Aso Rock.

He also directed chairmen of Igbo markets, associations, and town unions to ensure full compliance and strict observance of the shutdown in their respective areas.

Igboayaka equally appealed to the Police, Civil Defense, Fire Service, and Nigeria Red Cross to be present to fulfill their official responsibilities to the protesters.

He described the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu as an emblem of ethnic injustice and political persecution against Ndigbo.

He condemned the situation whereby terrorists and bandits in the North are granted amnesty, protected, or negotiated with, while Kanu, who merely exercised his right to free speech, is languishing in detention.

The OYC boss called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to immediately comply with all court orders and release Kanu without delay.