In an interview with Arise Television, Kenneth Okonkwo, a renowned actor and lawyer, made a compelling case for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Okonkwo emphasized the potential benefits of releasing Kanu, framing it as a strategic move for peace and reconciliation in Nigeria's southeast region.
"The federal government has a lot of places it can stand to release Nnamdi Kalu and bring peace to the southeast," Okonkwo stated. He highlighted the evolving perception of Kanu, suggesting that his continued imprisonment elevates his stature while diminishing the government's credibility. "He is now more likely a political prisoner. I tell you something, the longer Nnamdi Kalu is in prison the taller he becomes and the shorter the government becomes."
Okonkwo urged the federal government to adopt a more intelligent approach by releasing Kanu, drawing parallels with how other individuals have been handled. "They should take the intelligent way and release him like they did to other people. They should rehabilitate him and reconcile him as they are reconciling Southeast completely to the Nation," he added.
Okonkwo's remarks come at a time of heightened tensions and unrest in Nigeria's southeast, where the agitation for Biafra has led to significant disruptions and confrontations with security forces. By advocating for Kanu's release, Okonkwo joins a growing number of voices calling for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
The call for Kanu's release is rooted in the belief that it would pave the way for dialogue and reconciliation, addressing the underlying grievances of the southeast region.
Click the link below to watch the video. Start from 1:27