Mazi Nnamdi KanuReps Seek Political Solution, Cite National Healing and Security Concerns
Forty-four members of the House of Representatives have jointly appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order an immediate halt to the ongoing prosecution of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and initiate a political solution aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Southeast.
The lawmakers, operating under the banner of “concerned federal lawmakers,” conveyed their request in a formal letter to the President after a closed-door meeting where members from different political parties and ethnic groups deliberated extensively on the security and unity challenges facing the country.
In the letter, signed by Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere and 43 others, the legislators emphasized that ending the prolonged detention of Kanu has become imperative for fostering national reconciliation and healing. They noted that the country had previously explored dialogue with other agitating groups and armed actors, adding that adopting a similar approach in this instance would help douse tensions that have persisted in the Southeast since 2015 and escalated sharply from 2021.
The lawmakers referenced several domestic court rulings and international tribunal decisions that have ruled in Kanu’s favor, stressing that these developments, coupled with widespread public calls for his release, create a strong foundation for the President to act.
According to them, directing the Attorney-General of the Federation to discontinue Kanu’s trial under constitutional provisions would open the door for constructive engagement that could deliver a fair and lasting political resolution.
They wrote, in part, that their appeal is “driven by the abiding and urgent need for national reconciliation and healing,” while noting the “growing national groundswell” supporting Kanu’s release. The lawmakers expressed confidence that a decisive executive intervention would help stem the insecurity and instability that have affected communities in the Southeast.
The letter was co-signed by Hon. Harrison Nwadike, Hon. Obi Aguocha, Hon. Murphy Osaro, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Mudashiru Lukman, Hon. Paul Nnamechi, Hon. Sunday Cyriacus, Hon. Obed Shehu, Hon. Engr. Dominic, Hon. Ugwu Emmanuel, Hon. Daniel Asama Ago, Hon. Chike John Okafor, Hon. Adam Ogene Ogbaru, Hon. Emeka Martins Chinedu, Hon. Chimaobi Sam, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, Hon. Donatus Matthew, Hon. Ibe Osonwa, Barr. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, Hon. Thaddeus Atta, Hon. Udema H. Okonkwo, Hon. Cyril Godwin, Hon. Princess Chinwe Nnabuike, Hon. Kana Nkemkama, Hon. Peter Aniekwe, Hon. Gwachem Maureen, Hon. Onwunka, Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu, Hon. Nwobosi Joseph, Hon. Amobi Godwin, Hon. Blessing Amadi, Hon. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju, Hon. Dr. Joshua Audu Gana, Hon. Chris Nkwonta, Hon. Emeka Idu, Hon. Peter Ifeanyi Uzokwe, Hon. Matthew Nwogu, Hon. Tochukwu Okere, Hon. Benedict Etanabene, Hon. Godwin Offiono, Hon. Ngozi Okolie, and Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi.
They concluded by assuring President Tinubu of their continued respect for his office and expressed optimism that he would give prompt attention to their request, which they believe would contribute significantly to national unity and long-term stability.
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