Atmosphere in South-east Still Strained over Kanus Conviction, Declares SEast Caucus

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Southeast Caucus of the House of Representatives has lamented that despite numerous calls for calm, the atmosphere in the region  remained strained due to the conviction of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

The caucus added that the continued detention of Kanu has contributed significantly to tension and agitation in the Southeast. 

After extensive deliberation, the caucus resolved to appeal to President  Bola Tinubu to consider a political and humanitarian intervention, using the constitutional powers granted under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution, to grant pardon to Kanu.

The caucus led by Hon. Iduma Igariwey made the call while briefing the media after its meeting. 

The lawmaker said as elected representatives, they reaffirmed  their total respect for the judiciary and the processes that led to the conviction. 

However, the caucus stressed that their responsibility also required them to speak with clarity when a legal matter evolved into a broader national concern with serious humanitarian, economic, and security consequences.

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, Igariwey stated.

Beyond its political nature, the caucus claimed that this matter has taken a deep emotional toll on families, communities, and the general population. 

It noted that the Southeast has experienced profound social disruptions  closed markets, interrupted schooling, reduced commercial activity, and fear. 

Furthermore, it stressed that a political resolution would ease these human burdens and allow communities to return to a dignified life, emphasising that 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.

Finally, the Caucus believes that the release of Mazi 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. 

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