Atiku Isah, a factional leader of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has opened up about his time in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), where he spent over two months and developed a surprising connection with Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Isah was arrested on April 15 following allegations he made against Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, and Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande. He claimed the duo offered him a ₦100 million bribe in Lagos to promote the president—a claim Seyi Tinubu has denied. His detention sparked public outcry and protests led by activist Omoyele Sowore, eventually leading to his release on June 26, 2025.
While recounting his experience in DSS custody, Isah shared how he came to know Kanu personally. He said their interaction began after encouragement from another detainee. “I introduced myself to him, and he responded, ‘No, I know you,’” Isah recalled. “He encouraged me to stay strong, and from there, we began talking daily.”
Over the course of two months, Isah said he and Kanu had regular conversations, which changed his perception of the IPOB leader. “Before meeting him, I thought he was a dangerous man trying to divide Nigeria,” Isah admitted. “But in detention, I saw a different side. People from various ethnic groups, Fulanis, Hausas, Kanuris respected him deeply.”
He was surprised to find that Kanu had a strong following within the detention facility. “He has more loyal supporters inside DSS custody than outside,” Isah said. “One Fulani inmate even told me Kanu would like me because I speak English. That’s how much they admire him.”
Isah described Kanu as a thoughtful and resilient individual who cares about the struggles of young Nigerians. “He’s not the man I thought he was. He listens, he advises, and he genuinely wants to help,” he said.
The experience, Isah noted, reshaped his understanding of leadership, loyalty, and the complexity of Nigeria’s political landscape.
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