Prominent businessman and philanthropist Daniel Kanu has defended his activities during the era of the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, while denying social media claims that he was once imprisoned.
In a statement issued to newsmen on Thursday, Kanu reiterated his support for initiatives such as Vision 2010, stressing that his involvement was driven by a belief in youth empowerment and national development.
“I make no apologies,” he said, adding that his past political engagement should not be “retroactively weaponized through fabricated allegations.”
The statement was issued in response to a Facebook post by filmmaker Ugezu J. Ugezu, which alleged that Kanu, a former political loyalist during the Abacha government, had been arrested, prosecuted, and imprisoned over financial crimes. Kanu described the claims as “entirely false, baseless, and a deliberate attempt” to damage his reputation. He insisted that he has never been arrested, charged, tried, or convicted of any criminal offence, in Nigeria or elsewhere, and has never served a prison sentence.
Acknowledging that Ugezu may have intended to caution youth against political sycophancy, Kanu said that motive does not justify spreading misinformation. He described the use of his name in that context as “inappropriate” and “demonstrably dishonest.”
Kanu highlighted his political activism in March 1998, when he mobilized hundreds of thousands of youths under the Youths Earnestly Ask for Abacha ‘98 (YEAA) movement, staging what is widely regarded as Nigeria’s largest political rally to urge a transition to civilian rule. While critics branded him a military apologist, he maintains that his support was focused on Vision 2010’s youth development agenda.
He also confirmed filing a formal petition with the Inspector-General of Police, accusing Ugezu of criminal defamation, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking, and said authorities have begun investigating the matter. Kanu is prepared to pursue both civil and criminal proceedings against Ugezu and any parties involved in circulating the claims, emphasizing the case addresses the broader issue of misinformation online.
Beyond the controversy, Kanu highlighted his business and philanthropic activities, noting his investments in youth empowerment, community development, and support for vulnerable groups. He urged the public to verify information before publishing online.
“The digital space must not become a haven for reckless speech,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to defend his name and legacy through legal means.
