In a recent interview with The Sun, Pa Edwin Clark, an elder statesman and leader of the Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), shed light on the organization's objectives and concerns. He addressed various national issues, including the contentious detention of Nnamdi Kanu, a prominent figure in the pro-Biafra movement.
Clark delved into his personal involvement with Kanu's situation, recounting their initially contentious relationship. Despite their early disagreements, Clark emphasized the broader implications of Kanu's detention, particularly criticizing the perceived bias in the terrorism legislation enacted during the Buhari administration.
The elder statesman detailed the events that led to Kanu's flight from Nigeria and made a heartfelt appeal to the federal government for his release. He drew a parallel between Kanu's case and that of Asari Dokubo, another notable activist during President Obasanjo's tenure, suggesting that the government's handling of these cases could have significant historical ramifications.
Beyond the issue of Kanu's detention, Clark voiced his concerns over the marginalization of the Igbo people, calling for their fair treatment and inclusion in the Nigerian political landscape. He stressed the importance of addressing these grievances to promote national unity and equity.
He recounted how he once criticized Kanu for his aggressive approach, noting that Kanu was not born during the Nigerian Civil War of 1967. Clark had urged Kanu to avoid actions that could harm the country, leading to Kanu's harsh response. He criticized the targeted nature of the terrorism act under Buhari and reiterated his call for Kanu's release, advocating for a more inclusive and equitable treatment of all Nigerian citizens.
Hear him: "He (Nnamdi Kanu) abused me back. Because I said in my statement that he should not include Delta State, Edo State and South South region (in his Biafra). So they got angry and insulted me. But what we are now talking about is a very serious issue."