South-East governors announced on Tuesday their intention to engage with the federal government for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
This decision was part of the communiqué issued after a meeting of the Forum in Enugu, attended by governors Hope Uzodinma, Dr. Alex Otti, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, and host Governor Peter Mbah.
The move follows Kanu’s expressed willingness to seek an out-of-court settlement with the Nigerian Government.
On June 19, 2024, Kanu, facing charges of terrorism, indicated through his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, his intentions to reconcile with the government.
Ejimakor had discussed this with the government’s counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, who directed him to the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) for further discussions.
Justice Binta Nyako acknowledged that the court supports negotiation, urging Kanu to approach the AGF, the appropriate authority for such negotiations.
Meanwhile, about 50 members of the House of Representatives from various regions and political parties, identified as concerned federal lawmakers for Peace and Security in the South East, have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to invoke sections 174 of the Nigerian constitution and 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, to secure Kanu’s release.
They also called for a presidential peace initiative to address issues in the southeast, as stated in a three-page letter dated June 19, 2024.
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, also supports calls for Kanu’s release, citing its potential to foster peace. Obi emphasized the importance of rule of law and urged the government to obey court rulings granting Kanu bail.
Lawyer’s Perspective and Ohanaeze’s Stance
Activist lawyer Madubuachi Idam described Kanu’s move for an out-of-court settlement as prudent, stating it would allow Kanu to voice his grievances and demands to the government. Idam suggested Kanu should sign a bond to preach peace if released.
The National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze, Alex Ogbonnia, emphasized that a political solution is key to resolving the issue, asserting that Kanu’s release would reduce insecurity in the southeast.
Arewa Youths’ Opinion
The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) believes the court should decide Kanu’s fate based on evidence.
National President Yerima Shettima suggested that if Kanu is found guilty, he should face consequences, but if innocent, he should be released.
Shettima also called for constitutional amendments to allow for self-determination.
Shettima argued that Kanu and Simon Ekpa have lost control over the Biafra agitation, which has turned into criminal activity.
He stressed that even if Kanu is released, it may not resolve the ongoing criminality in the southeast.
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