Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has urged President Bola Tinubu to show leniency and release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Speaking with journalists after the inaugural meeting of the House Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC) at the National Assembly in Abuja on Wednesday, Kalu emphasized the need for a political rather than legal resolution to Kanu’s case.
According to Kalu’s Special Assistant on Press Affairs, Udora Orizu, the deputy speaker also commended President Tinubu for his dedication to fostering peace, development, and stability in the South-East. He particularly praised the President’s swift approval of the South East Development Commission Bill, which had previously failed in past assemblies.
Kalu expressed optimism that Tinubu would heed their appeal, emphasizing that Kanu’s release could help reduce insecurity and accelerate development in the region through the SEDC.
“President Tinubu has demonstrated that the South East remains an integral part of Nigeria. His approval of the SEDC Bill will prioritize key areas like agriculture, energy, power, infrastructure, and technology,” Kalu stated.
He highlighted the South-East’s potential for innovation and called for government support to harness the region’s talent, suggesting the creation of an “Eastern Valley,” similar to Silicon Valley, to nurture creative and technological minds.
Kalu stressed that insecurity remains a major challenge in the region, making peace a top priority for lawmakers. He argued that releasing Kanu would help curb criminal activities by removing an excuse used by some groups to justify violence.
“If Nnamdi Kanu is released, those exploiting his detention to cause harm will have no further justification, making it easier for security agencies to restore order,” he said.
Appealing directly to Tinubu, Kalu urged the President to adopt a political solution, stating, “We are pleading with the President to temper justice with mercy. Releasing Kanu will enhance security and pave the way for the development that the SEDC is set to bring.”