Immediate past Vice President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Damian Okeke Ogene, has described the life imprisonment handed down to IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu by Justice James Omotosho as a symbol that the Igbos Nigeria have been “jailed.”

Ogene lamented the judgment, calling it a sad day for the Igbo community and warning that Nigerians should be prepared for the consequences of the sentence.

“This reflects the position of Igbos in Nigeria and the level of animosity some Nigerians harbor towards us,” he said. “The outcome was expected, and we are not surprised, but the country must be ready for the repercussions.”

He contrasted Kanu’s sentencing with the treatment of other groups, noting that Boko Haram members and bandits are often labeled repentant, whereas Kanu was tried for treason, resulting in life imprisonment.

Ogene also dismissed the idea of appealing the judgment, stating that the Igbo community’s primary demand is the unconditional release of Kanu.

“What can we expect from the Appeal Court or Supreme Court? It would likely be the same. It is indeed a sad day for the Igbos,” he added.