Media personality Noble Igwe has launched a strong criticism against individuals who have suddenly found their voices following the conviction of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, while maintaining silence during the prolonged period of violence and economic disruption in Nigeria's Southeast region.
The Context of Kanu's Conviction
Nnamdi Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment for terrorism on Thursday, November 20, 2025, marking a significant development in the ongoing security challenges in Southeastern Nigeria. The IPOB leader's conviction has sparked mixed reactions across the country, with some celebrating the judicial outcome while others express concern.
Igwe's Powerful Social Media Statement
In a post on his Instagram story, Noble Igwe directly addressed what he perceives as selective outrage among certain commentators and public figures. He highlighted the troubling silence that persisted during the most damaging periods of IPOB's activities in the Southeast.
"A lot of people kept quiet while children stayed home every Monday," Igwe wrote, referencing the controversial sit-at-home orders that forced school closures across the region. He further emphasized how the same individuals remained silent "while brothers killed brothers" during the violent unrest perpetrated by unknown gunmen.
The Pattern of Selective Condemnation
Igwe's criticism extends to what he describes as a pattern of convenient silence during the most critical moments of the Southeast crisis. He noted that many who now speak out against Kanu's conviction had previously moved around with military convoys without commenting on the underlying security issues.
"They moved around with military convoys in silence but suddenly, they've found their voices now that public likes are involved," Igwe stated, suggesting that social media engagement and public approval might be motivating the newfound vocal stance of some commentators.
The media personality concluded with a reflective statement urging people to remember the Southeast region before the emergence of Kanu and similar figures: "One day, I hope you all look back and remember the South East before he and his likes showed up on the scene."
This statement serves as a poignant reminder of the region's previous state of relative peace and stability, contrasting it with the current security challenges that have affected economic activities, education, and community cohesion.
