A group of about 50 House of Representatives members from all six geopolitical zones, known as Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the South-East, have requested President Bola Tinubu to utilize constitutional provisions to release Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, from the custody of the Department of State Services.
In a letter dated June 19, 2024, the lawmakers, representing various political parties, urged Tinubu to take action to address the security challenges in the South-East region.
Signatories of the letter included Obi Aguocha, Ikenga Ugochinyere, Afam Ogene, Muhammed Jajere, Aliyu Mustapha, Midala Balami, Abiante Awaji-Inombek, Dominic Okafor, Etanabene Benedict, Abdulmaleek Danga, Shehu Dalhatu, Chinedu Martins, Matthew Nwogu, Peter Aniekwe, Koki Sagir, and Amobi Oga, among others.
The lawmakers urged Tinubu to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, to use his powers under the law to secure Kanu’s release and halt his trial.
According to the letter, the lawmakers believe that releasing Kanu would promote peace, inclusivity, and national unity amidst ongoing constitutional reforms and various challenges facing the nation.
They emphasized that resolving issues in the South-East would contribute significantly to national cohesion and development, highlighting past successful peace initiatives in other regions of the country.
The lawmakers commended previous governmental efforts in establishing development commissions and ministries to address regional grievances and conflicts, expressing confidence that similar actions in the South-East could bring positive change.
They called for a commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law, suggesting that releasing Kanu would demonstrate the government’s dedication to upholding democratic principles and promoting dialogue over confrontation.
The representatives emphasized the importance of protecting lives and property, asserting that facilitating Kanu’s release would be a significant step towards advancing justice and democracy.