Release Kanu On Political, Humanitarian To Restore Peace, South East Reps Urge Tinubu

By Alkassim Bala Tsakuwa, Abuja

The South East Caucus in the House of Representatives have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu through political, humanitarian solution.

They made the call at a Press conference on Monday addressed by Hon. Iduma Igariwey and signed by its 42 members.

The disclosed that, they had met, reviewed the recent judgment on Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and assessed its implications for peace, security, and stability in the Southeast region, and the nation at large.

They stated, “After extensive deliberation, the Caucus resolved to humbly appeal to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to consider a political and humanitarian intervention using the constitutional powers granted under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution, to grant pardon to Mazi Kanu.

“As elected representatives, we reaffirm our total respect for the judiciary and the processes that led to the conviction. However, our responsibility also requires us to speak with clarity when a legal matter evolves into a broader national concern with serious humanitarian, economic, and security consequences”.

The lawmakers noted that, their appeal was grounded on some considerations which include that, “The continued detention of Mazi Kanu has contributed significantly to tension and agitation in the Southeast. Despite numerous calls for calm, the atmosphere remains strained.

“A presidential act of mercy at this time has the potential to de-escalate tensions, restore normalcy, and reduce the cycle of security operations and civil resistance.

“Beyond its political nature, this matter has taken a deep emotional toll on families, communities, and the general population. The Southeast has experienced profound social disruptions — closed markets, interrupted schooling, reduced commercial activity, and fear. A political resolution would ease these human burdens and allow communities to return to a dignified life.

“Nigeria has, in critical moments, relied on presidential magnanimity to heal divisions and consolidate peace. Indeed, the authors of our constitution conceived of Section 175, in anticipation that the bare dictates of the law may sometimes prove insufficient in tackling complex legal issues that are better handled politically via Presidential discretion.

“It is our belief that an act of clemency by the President would resonate deeply across the country as a symbol of inclusiveness, fairness, and leadership that prioritises healing over division. It would send a clear message that dialogue is still possible, even in difficult circumstances”.

According to the lawmakers, the Caucus believes that the release of Kanu, through pardon, would open space for broader engagement between the Federal Government, elected leaders, and community stakeholders to chart a sustainable and peaceful path forward.

They added, “Therefore, in the spirit of national healing, unity, and responsible leadership, we respectfully urge the President to consider this request as an investment in Nigeria’s long-term peace and cohesion.

“We call on all citizens of the Southeast to remain calm, law-abiding, and supportive of ongoing efforts to secure a peaceful resolution.

“The Southeast Caucus remains committed to working with the Federal Government to advance national unity, inclusive governance, and lasting stability across all regions”.