A South‑East cleric has warned that backing the All-Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections without first pushing for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), could harm the political interests of the Igbo (Ndigbo).

The cleric spoke in a statement issued on Monday, highlighting continued frustration in the region over Mr. Kanu’s detention.

The cleric said that many in the South‑East view Mr. Kanu’s continued detention as a symbol of broader marginalisation by the federal government.

He said that asking voters to support the APC without first addressing the Kanu issue could weaken the Igbo community’s influence in national politics.

Mr. Kanu has been in custody since 2021 after being brought back from Kenya to face trial on charges including treasonable felony, a case that remains before the courts.

The matter has drawn strong reactions from civil groups and political actors in the South‑East, with some linking his release to national peace and political engagement.

The cleric said that unresolved issues around Mr. Kanu’s detention have deepened political frustration among youth and community groups.

He said such feelings could influence voter behaviour in the coming election year if they are not meaningfully addressed through formal dialogue and political action.

Various youth organisations have previously stated that political support from the South‑East in 2027 could hinge on progress toward Mr. Kanu’s release.

One group, the All Igbo Youth Forum (AIYF), said their support for the APC would depend on action taken by the Federal Government on the matter, warning that continued detention without resolution could weaken ties between the zone and major national political parties.

However, not all leaders share this conditional stance. Minister of Works Dave Umahi has previously said the release of Mr. Kanu should not be made a political condition for support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or the APC in 2027.

Umahi said the matter should be addressed through dialogue and legal channels rather than political bargaining.

The cleric’s comments reflect ongoing debates within the South‑East about how to balance regional priorities, justice concerns and political alliances ahead of the 2027 polls.

Political analysts note that unresolved socio‑legal issues can shape election dynamics, especially in regions where trust in federal processes is strained.

As the election approaches, voices from various groups continue to push for broader consultation, dialogue with the Federal Government, and careful engagement on sensitive national issues linked to identity, justice and regional representation.