Businessman and philanthropist Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, has appealed for calm, unity, and constructive engagement following the life sentencing of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. In a message shared on Friday, Cubana said the recent wave of events in the country has left many Nigerians worried and emotionally drained, stressing that escalation or division will not help the situation.
Kanu was sentenced on Thursday after being found guilty of terrorism charges, a development that deepened tension in the South-East and sparked nationwide conversations about justice, security, and political inclusion. Cubana, one of the most influential figures in Igbo society, is one of the latest prominent voices calling for a peaceful and negotiated approach.
In his statement, Obi Cubana described the past few days as some of the most troubling moments in recent times. He listed several incidents that have heightened national anxiety, including:
The redesignation of Nigeria by the United States as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged religious intolerance,
The kidnapping of schoolgirls in Kebbi State,
The abduction of worshippers in Kwara State,
The killing of a Brigadier General by terrorists,
The sentencing of Nnamdi Kanu,
And the kidnapping of over 50 students from a Catholic school in Niger State.
“These events have left everyone perplexed and downcast,” he said. “The mood in the country is so bad, and most reasonable people are worried.”
Cubana’s comments reflect the current atmosphere in Nigeria, where cases of kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism continue to dominate headlines. Many citizens have expressed fear and frustration over the country’s security situation, prompting calls for both government action and community dialogue.
Obi Cubana also revealed that he and other well-meaning Nigerians have been in discussions with government figures over the past three months. According to him, these engagements included meetings with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President’s son.
He explained that the meetings covered several national issues, including:
Rising insecurity,
The new tax policies affecting businesses,
Ease of doing business,
Challenges involving agencies such as Customs, FIRS, and NAFDAC,
And the pursuit of a political solution that could lead to Nnamdi Kanu’s release.
“I can tell you that numerous efforts have been going on on these issues,” he said, urging the public to understand that several stakeholders are working quietly behind the scenes.
Obi Cubana’s message was especially directed at the Igbo community, where emotions remain high following Kanu’s conviction. He warned against internal division and stressed the importance of unity at a time when tensions could easily escalate.
“One thing is very clear here: No Igbo man or woman will have peace if MNK does not regain his freedom, and Ala Igbo will NEVER be the same again,” he wrote.
He added that although tempers are high and people are exchanging harsh words, the common goal remains the same: securing Kanu’s release.
“We all want MNK out, and we will NEVER rest till MNK is out,” he said.
Obi Cubana made a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to listen to the outcry from the South-East and take meaningful steps to address their concerns.
“Our dear President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this is the time for you to heed the cry of our people and free Nnamdi Kanu,” he said.
This appeal comes at a time when several leaders from the region—including senators, governors, community elders, and activists—have been calling for a political solution rather than a purely legal one. Many argue that Kanu’s continued detention has contributed to unrest in the South-East, including sit-at-home orders, violent attacks, and economic disruption.
Despite expressing strong concerns, Cubana urged people to remain peaceful and avoid actions that could worsen the already fragile situation in the country. He emphasised that Nigeria must move toward a future where all citizens feel safe and protected regardless of religion, ethnicity, or cultural background.
“Most importantly, we are working on a Nigeria where each of us can live and operate freely without fear regardless of ethnicity, religion and culture,” he said.
He added that constructive agitation is legitimate, but real solutions lie on the negotiation table, not in violence or division.
“Constructive agitations remain the bedrock upon which great societies are built, but solutions will only be found on the negotiation table,” he said.
Nnamdi Kanu’s legal journey has been a long and controversial one. Since his arrest in 2021, his case has shaped political discussions, security operations, and community relations in the South-East. IPOB’s activities, along with rising criminal attacks falsely linked to the movement, have contributed to instability in the region.
His sentencing has renewed calls for dialogue, justice, and reconciliation. Leaders across the region have warned that mishandling the situation could worsen insecurity and increase mistrust between the Federal Government and the Igbo community.
Obi Cubana concluded his message with a reminder that calm and unity are needed more than ever. He encouraged people not to lose hope and assured them that efforts for a political solution will continue.
“Dalu nu, umunne m!” he wrote — “Thank you, my brothers and sisters.”
