Abuja — A group of about 50 members of the House of Representatives from various political parties and regions across Nigeria have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to invoke constitutional provisions to release Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), from detention.
Lawmakers are of the opinion that releasing Kanu would play a key role in re-establishing peace and resolving the concerns that have caused unrest in the South East region.
The appeal was made in a letter dated June 19, 2024, signed by the lawmakers, who represent different constituencies in the House of Representatives.
They appealed to President Tinubu to instruct the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, to exercise his authority under Section 174(1) of the Constitution and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, to halt Kanu's trial and facilitate his release from custody.
The lawmakers argued that Kanu's release would open the door for much-needed conversations surrounding peace restoration and inclusivity, and would demonstrate the President's commitment to upholding the principles of rule of law, justice, and fairness.
They also called for the commencement of a presidential peace initiative to address all issues and challenges bedeviling the South East region.
The letter's signatories include Hon Obi Aguocha from Abia, Hon Ikenga Ugochinyere from Imo, Hon. Aliyu Mustapha from Kaduna, Hon Midala Balami from Borno, Hon Afam Ogene from Anambra, Hon. Abiante Awaji-Inombek from Rivers, Hon Dominic Okafor from Anambra, Hon Etanabene Benedict from Delta, Hon. Shehu Dalhatu from Katsina, Hon Chinedu Emeka Martins from Imo, Hon. Matthew Nwogu from Imo, Hon. Muhammed Buba Jagere from Yobe, Hon Peter Aniekwe from Anambra, Hon Koki Sagir from Kano, Hon Amobi Oga from Abia, Hon Gwacham Chinwe from Anambra, Hon Uchenna Okonkwo from Anambra, Hon. Abdulmaleek Danga from Kogi, Hon. Osi Nkemkama from Ebonyi, among others.
The lawmakers expressed their belief that addressing the challenges in the South East would pave the way for peace initiatives, economic revitalization, and a renewed sense of belonging among the citizens of the region.
They also highlighted that President Tinubu's administration has the opportunity to bolster its legacy by prioritizing national unity, peace, and progress through such actions.
The appeal comes at a time when the South East region is facing turmoil and insecurity, with a breakdown of security, a downturn of economic activities, families running away from their homes, and businesses crumbling.
Lawmakers are of the opinion that releasing Kanu would be a significant move toward national unity and would motivate stakeholders from the South East to participate more vigorously in national dialogues concerning the agenda for renewed hope.
President Tinubu has yet to respond to the appeal, but the lawmakers remain optimistic that their request will be considered with the gravity it deserves.
