In a significant move, South-East governors announced on Tuesday their intention to interface with the federal government for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. This decision was articulated in a communiqué issued after a meeting of the Forum in Enugu, attended by governors Hope Uzodinma, Dr. Alex Otti, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru of Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi states, as well as the host, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State.
The drive for Kanu's release follows his recent indication of a willingness to engage the Nigerian Government in an out-of-court settlement. On June 19, 2024, Kanu, facing charges of terrorism, expressed through his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, his intent to reconcile with the Federal Government. Ejimakor informed the Federal High Court in Abuja of these intentions, highlighting discussions with the Federal Government's counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo. However, Awomolo stated that he had no instructions from his client to negotiate, suggesting that Kanu approach the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) for such discussions. Justice Binta Nyako supported this, advising Kanu to engage with the AGF, who holds the proper authority for negotiation.
In a related development, about 50 members of the House of Representatives from various regions and political parties, collectively known as the Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the Southeast, have urged President Bola Tinubu to invoke section 174 of the Nigerian Constitution (1999, as amended) and section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (2015) to ensure Kanu's release. These lawmakers appealed for a presidential peace initiative to address the underlying issues and challenges in the Southeast, as detailed in a three-page letter dated June 19, 2024, addressed to the President.
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, also supports the calls for Kanu's release, arguing that it would promote peace. Obi stated, "I don’t see any reason for his continued detention, especially as the courts have granted him bail. The government must obey the court. Rule of law is an intricate asset that we must cherish and live with. I use this opportunity to plead with the government to ensure that all those who are in similar conditions are released and discussed with. We are in a democracy, and we should not be doing things that are arbitrary and not within the law.”
Prominent activist lawyer, Madubuachi Idam, has described Kanu's move to seek an out-of-court settlement with the Nigerian Government as prudent and not an act of cowardice. Speaking with DAILY POST, Idam emphasized that this approach allows Kanu to express his grievances and present his demands at the negotiation table. He stated, "Asking for an out-of-court settlement is not an act of cowardice nor a sign of weakness. Kanu is not at war with the Nigerian state; he is agitating for freedom from Nigeria. His decision to seek an out-of-court settlement is well thought out and prudent, providing an opportunity to discuss his grievances and demands without continuing the agitation."
Idam further suggested that Kanu should sign a bond to promote peace if released, adding that the continued detention of Kanu is counterproductive. He stressed that Kanu should not be seen as an enemy of the state, and his release could help reduce criminal activities in the Southeast. He added, "Kanu's continued detention serves no purpose; it’s like using a sledgehammer to kill an ant. If Kanu was tried the first time he was arrested in 2017, the current tension could have been avoided. The state popularized Kanu’s issue, and his release would likely douse the criminal activities in the Southeast."
The National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze, Alex Ogbonnia, echoed these sentiments, stating that a political solution is essential for addressing the fundamental issues underlying the Biafra agitation. He noted, "The issue of Nnamdi Kanu demands a political solution. The kinetic approach in the Southeast that has created unnecessary tension is not the solution. The Nigerian government should address the root causes of the agitation, as Kanu represents the broader concerns of the Southeast, including marginalization and unfair treatment."
However, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) holds a different view. They believe that the court should decide Kanu's fate based on evidence. The National President of AYCF, Yerima Shettima, argued that Kanu should face the consequences of his actions if found guilty by the court, or be released if proven innocent. He stated, "For me, I would have been comfortable if the court decided his fate at the end of the day based on what is before the court. Kanu should face the music if he’s found wanting or be allowed to go if proven innocent."
Shettima also called for constitutional amendments to allow for self-determination, suggesting that people should have the right to decide if they want to remain in Nigeria or form a separate entity. He highlighted that while Nigeria is a signatory to international agreements on self-determination, the local constitution does not reflect this right. He stated, "The right to self-determination is guaranteed under international law, and Nigeria is a signatory to that agreement. Unfortunately, our local constitution does not reflect this. If the government is sincere, we should amend the laws to include provisions for self-determination and referendums."
The calls for Kanu's release and a political solution to the issues in the Southeast have sparked widespread debate. Many believe that addressing the root causes of the agitation and promoting dialogue and reconciliation could foster lasting peace in the region. As the discussions continue, the involvement of various stakeholders, including political leaders, legal experts, and civil society groups, will be crucial in shaping a peaceful and just resolution.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts and reactions to this crucial development. How do you feel about the efforts to secure Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's release? What impact do you think this will have on peace and security in the Southeast? Share your comments below and follow us for more updates on this and other important issues. Your engagement is valuable as we continue to bring you the latest news and in-depth analysis.
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