A United States–based advocacy group, Ambassadors for Self Determination USA, has criticised political leaders from Nigeria’s South-East region for what it described as a weak and uncoordinated response to the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.
In a statement issued from Washington, D.C., the group reacted to comments credited to the Minister of Works, **David Umahi**, saying the remarks reflected the Federal Government’s hardline position against Biafra-related demands and a lack of willingness to revisit Kanu’s case.
The organisation said the comments underscored the absence of a strong, united political front from elected officials in the South-East, noting that this had weakened advocacy efforts and reduced international attention on the matter.
“Statements from senior government officials continue to show that there is little inclination at the centre to reconsider its approach,” the group said, adding that South-East leaders had failed to articulate a collective strategy capable of influencing events.
Ambassadors for Self Determination USA also linked the issue to wider governance challenges in parts of the South-East, including economic disruptions and recurring tensions associated with protests and enforcement actions.
According to the group, policies that affect daily economic activities should be pursued through inclusive dialogue to prevent further strain between authorities and residents, warning that unilateral decisions could deepen mistrust and prolong instability.
The advocacy group urged residents of the region to remain committed to peaceful and lawful civic engagement, especially as the country approaches future elections, calling on voters to assess leadership performance and accountability.
It reaffirmed its support for non-violent efforts to address long-standing political grievances and called for renewed dialogue anchored on justice, inclusion and respect for the rights of affected communities.
