Nnamdi Kanu’s release is a call for justice and National healing. Igbo people are one of Nigeria’s major ethnic groups and possess the attributes to secure a formidable niche in the nation’s political prospects. With a robust numerical strength, industry, education, and wealth. The Igbo have all it takes to influence Nigeria's political and socioeconomic structure significantly. However, the perception persists that the Igbo are not leveraging their potential in national politics effectively. A critical issue now demanding attention is the prolonged detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The federal government of Nigeria must temper justice with mercy and release Nnamdi Kanu. His release is not only a legal imperative but also a step toward promoting national unity and reconciliation.
The struggle for Biafra dates back to 1967 when the southeastern provinces of Nigeria sought to secede and form an independent state. The Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War, ensued, leaving indelible scars on the nation. In 2012, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu founded IPOB to reignite the quest for Biafran self-determination. Through Radio Biafra, a United Kingdom-registered station, Kanu propagated his vision of Biafran independence.
In 2015, Kanu was arrested on charges of treason and detained for over a year despite several court orders for his release. He was granted bail in 2017 but was later forced to flee Nigeria due to a military operation in his hometown. In June 2021, Kanu was reportedly re-arrested in Kenya and brought to Nigeria under questionable circumstances.
On October 13, 2022, the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal discharged Nnamdi Kanu of the 15-count terrorism charges filed against him by the federal government. The court ruled that Kanu’s arrest and rendition violated international laws and conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory.
Justice Adedotun Adefope-Okijie, who delivered the unanimous judgment, stated that the federal government failed to comply with the legal requirements for extradition. She emphasized that no court in Nigeria could assume jurisdiction over Kanu under these circumstances.
However, a former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN, clarified that Kanu was discharged but not acquitted, leaving room for further legal proceedings on pre-rendition issues.
Prominent legal luminaries, including Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor and Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, have argued for Kanu’s unconditional release, citing procedural and substantive flaws in his trial. The federal government’s actions, including the extraordinary rendition, have been widely criticized as violations of international law.
As Nigerians, we must uphold the principles of justice and fairness. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has the constitutional authority to grant a presidential pardon to Nnamdi Kanu. Doing so would demonstrate a commitment to healing national divisions and stimulate a sense of inclusion and reconciliation.
The release of Nnamdi Kanu would not only address a lingering legal and political issue but also pave the way for a renewed dialogue on the grievances of the southeastern region. It is time for Nigeria to adopt a conciliatory approach that prioritizes unity and mutual respect.
President Tinubu, the nation looks to you to take a bold step toward resolving this matter. A presidential pardon for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu would be a historic act of statesmanship, signaling a commitment to justice, equity, and the rule of law.
Let us rise above our divisions and work together for a united and prosperous Nigeria. The time to act is now.
Written by Daniel Okonkwo for Profile International Human Rights Advocate.
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