Fifty members of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, representing various regions and political parties, have formally requested President Bola Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, from detention.
The lawmakers, identifying themselves as the Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the South East, conveyed their appeal in a three-page letter dated June 19, 2024. The letter, signed by all fifty members, emphasizes the need for peace and security in the South East region.
Notable signatories include Hon Obi Aguocha (Abia), Hon Ikenga Ugochinyere (Imo), Hon Aliyu Mustapha (Kaduna), Hon Midala Balami (Borno), Hon Afam Ogene (Anambra), Hon Abiante Awaji-Inombek (Rivers), Hon Dominic Okafor (Anambra), Hon Etanabene Benedict (Delta), Hon Shehu Dalhatu (Katsina), Hon Chinedu Emeka Martins (Imo), Hon Matthew Nwogu (Imo), Hon Muhammed Buba Jagere (Yobe), Hon Peter Aniekwe (Anambra), Hon Koki Sagir (Kano), Hon Amobi Oga (Abia), Hon Gwacham Chinwe (Anambra), Hon Uchenna Okonkwo (Anambra), Hon Abdulmaleek Danga (Kogi), and Hon Osi Nkemkama (Ebonyi), among others.
The lawmakers have urged President Tinubu to instruct the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, to exercise his powers under Section 174(1) of the Constitution and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015. They seek the invocation of nolle prosequi to release Mr. Kanu from detention and halt his ongoing trial.
The letter read in part, “Your Excellency, we are concerned members of the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with a strong belief and trust that the RENEWED HOPE agenda of His Excellency and the various positive reforms would be seen and felt by all.
“It is against this backdrop that we, the undersigned, hereby beseech Your Excellency to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, to invoke his powers of nolle prosequi under the provisions of Section 174(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, and cause the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from detention and discontinue his trial.
“We collectively believe this is long overdue and would be instrumental in opening the door for much-needed conversations surrounding peace reformation and inclusivity, as well as addressing the issues that led to the agitations, especially at this time when Nigeria is going through several constitutional reforms.
“Your Excellency, we resolutely believe that this singular act can serve as a pivotal gesture towards national unity, as it would address some of the political, security, and economic concerns in the region. It would encourage stakeholders from the Southeast to engage more actively in the national discussions on the renewed hope agenda, thereby promoting inclusivity and addressing long-standing grievances.
“Moreover, we, as key actors in the renewed hope agenda of Your Excellency, are not unmindful of the fact that Your Excellency has extended this gesture through the office of the Attorney General in the charge involving Omoyele Sowore, wherein he was charged with treasonable felony in Charge No. FHC/ABJ CR/235/2019, Sunday Igboho, and others.
“All these recorded tremendous successes, especially in resolving the crisis within the North-Central, North-Eastern, and South-South regions, not forgetting peace efforts in the Niger-Delta region, which have helped in many ways.
“The establishment of the North East Development Commission, Ministry of the Niger-Delta, Niger-Delta Development Commission, Presidential Amnesty, various host community laws, etc., were all commitments to show good faith to the plight of the people as well as resolving regional conflicts.
“It is, therefore, our conviction that fixing the challenges in the South-East would go a long way in changing the narrative and showcasing your commitment to upholding the principles of rule of law, justice, and fairness, which are the bedrock of our democracy.
“Your Excellency, the benefits of such a bold and compassionate act are manifold.
“It would pave the way for peace initiatives, economic revitalization, and a renewed sense of belonging among the citizens of the Southeast.
“It would also enhance your administration’s legacy as one that prioritizes national unity, peace, and progress.”
“We are hopeful that you will consider this request with the gravity it deserves and take the necessary steps to bring about a new era of peace and inclusivity in Nigeria. Thank you, Your Excellency, for your attention to this important matter, and we look forward to a positive response.”
