Pro-Biafra agitators demonstrate in Owerri

Hundreds of supporters of Pro-Biafra groups on Thursday marched along major streets in Owerri and called for the release of Mr Nnamdi Kanu, the acclaimed operator Radio Biafra.

The demonstrators, comprising members of Movement for the Sovereign State of Biafra and the Indigenous People of Biafra, chanted pro-Biafra songs and war songs.

While the demonstration lasted, armed security operatives, including the police and the army, in trucks, monitored the situation.

A demonstrator, who refused to be named, said that the agitation was meant for the Federal Government to release Kanu unconditionally and allow Biafra people freedom.

He said that it was wrong for the Federal Government and its security agents to arrest Kanu because he supported and believed in the freedom of Biafra people.

"Kanu did not commit any crime to be arrested by the Nigerian Government and we cannot hold ourselves back in asking for his release even if we die in the process,’’ the demonstrator said.

He said that the members of the group had carried out the demonstration in Enugu, Aba, and Port Harcourt.

The demonstrators wore T-Shirts with Biafra inscriptions and flags.

The three markets in Owerri -- Owerri Main Market, New Market and Owerri Relief Market -- were shut while some private schools and shop owners closed their businesses to avoid any ugly experiences.

When contacted on why armed policemen were accompanying agitators, the Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Andrew Enwerem, declined comment.

"Please I do not have any comment on that my brother,'' Enwerem said.