The Southeast Caucus of the House of Representatives has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to exercise his constitutional powers and grant presidential pardon to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu who was recently sentenced to a life imprisonment.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, had his judgement, convicted Kanu on all 7-count-charge preferred Kanu and subsequently sentenced him to life imprisonment.
The lawmakers made the plea in a joint statement issued after an emergency meeting held on Monday in Abuja to review the recent court judgment on Kanu and assess its implications for peace and stability in the region.
Reading the statement on behalf of the caucus, Hon. Iduma Igariwey said while the lawmakers respect the judiciary and the legal processes that led to Kanu’s conviction, the matter has evolved into a national concern with far-reaching humanitarian, economic and security implications.
The caucus urged the president to invoke Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers him to grant pardon, arguing that such a political and humanitarian intervention would help de-escalate tension and restore normalcy in the Southeast.
They listed four key reasons for the appeal, including heightened insecurity and agitation linked to Kanu’s continued detention; the emotional and economic hardship faced by residents; the need for presidential magnanimity in addressing complex national challenges; and the potential for Kanu’s release to open space for broader dialogue between the Federal Government and regional stakeholders.
According to the lawmakers, markets closures, reduced commercial activity, interrupted schooling and general fear have become recurring features in many communities, underscoring the urgency of a political solution.
They added that Nigeria had, in the past, relied on presidential discretion to heal divisions, stressing that a similar approach could help consolidate peace and promote national unity.
The caucus urged southeast residents to remain calm and law-abiding as efforts continue to secure a peaceful resolution.
A total of 42 lawmakers signed the statement.
Daily Trust
