44 federal lawmakers demand Nnamdi Kanu’s release, write president Tinubu

 

Forty-four serving members of the House of Representatives have formally written to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to order the release of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and initiate a political dialogue aimed at resolving grievances fueling unrest in the South-East.

The lawmakers, drawn from various regions across the country and different political parties, signed a two-page resolution calling on the President to exercise his constitutional authority by directing the Attorney-General of the Federation to discontinue Kanu’s prosecution.

The group, convened by Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, representing Ideato South/ North federal constituency of lmo State, said their joint decision followed consultations across ethnic, religious, and party lines.

According to the letter addressed to the President, the continued detention of Kanu has contributed to rising insecurity, economic disruption, sit-at-home enforcement, and tensions across the South-East since 2021.

The lawmakers argued that the Federal Government had previously engaged armed groups and agitators in other parts of the country and should apply the same political approach in resolving issues linked to the IPOB leader.

Part of the letter reads: “Driven by the need for national reconciliation and healing, and noting court rulings and international tribunal pronouncements in favor of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, we respectfully request that Mr President directs the Attorney-General to discontinue the prosecution and begin a constructive political dialogue.”

They further appealed to President Tinubu to consider the growing public demand for a political solution and the potential impact Kanu’s release could have on restoring peace and stability in the region.

The lawmakers maintained that resolving the matter politically rather than through prolonged litigation would help reposition the government’s effort toward national unity.

The letter was signed by Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, Hon. Obi Aguocha, Hon. Murphy Osaro, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Mudshiru Lukman, Hon. Paul Nnamechi, Hon. Chike Okafor, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, Hon. Chris Nkwonta, Hon. Thaddeus Atta, Hon. Ibe Osonwa and 34 others.

The development marks one of the strongest coordinated legislative appeals yet concerning Kanu’s case.