Obi Aguocha, the lawmaker representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in Abia State, has called on former President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene in securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Kanu, apprehended in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria in July 2021 after fleeing following a military raid on his home, remains in detention on multiple charges, including treason. Aguocha’s plea follows Kanu’s recent denouncement of violence in a viral video and his appeal for an out-of-court settlement of his ongoing trial.
In a statement on Sunday, Aguocha’s media team quoted the lawmaker: “For the missteps, utterances, and ill gestures of the past, especially on the part of my constituent and brother, Nnamdi Kanu, I am deeply sorry.” Aguocha expressed confidence that a political solution would address grievances and promote national unity.
During his presidency, Buhari had dismissed the possibility of a political solution for Kanu, insisting on judicial proceedings. In a 2022 interview with Channels TV, Buhari stated: “There is one institution that I wouldn’t interfere with, that is the judiciary. Kanu’s case is with the judiciary… Let him come here with us and then criticise us here.”
However, in response to Aguocha’s recent appeal, Buhari commended the lawmaker for his humility and dedication to his constituents. Aguocha, supported by 50 House Representatives from various geopolitical zones, has urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General to invoke relevant constitutional and legal provisions to secure Kanu’s release.
“This meeting is part of a broad-based initiative aimed at securing a speedy political resolution of the issues surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s detention and trial,” Aguocha’s statement read, highlighting Kanu’s readiness to embrace dialogue and contribute to building a peaceful, equitable, and just Nigeria.
This development marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the issues surrounding Kanu’s detention, reflecting a broader push for dialogue and reconciliation in Nigeria.
