A group of 50 members of the House of Representatives, known as Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the South-East, have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to invoke Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, to facilitate the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The lawmakers believe this move is crucial for the restoration of peace in the South-East region.
In a three-page letter dated 19th June 2024 and addressed to President Tinubu, the lawmakers urged the President to initiate a presidential peace initiative to address the ongoing challenges in the South-East.
Among the signatories are Hon. Obi Aguocha (Abia), Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere (Imo), Hon. Aliyu Mustapha (Kaduna), Hon. Midala Balami (Borno), and Hon. Afam Ogene (Anambra), among others.
The letter stated, “The Minority Leadership of the House of Representatives is deeply concerned by the alarming rise in cholera cases across thirty states in Nigeria, as reported by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). This outbreak highlights critical deficiencies in public health safety measures and underscores the urgent need for immediate action.”
Reflecting on past actions, the lawmakers noted that the President had previously extended a similar gesture through the Attorney General in cases involving Omoyele Sowore and Sunday Igboho.
They argued that a similar approach for Nnamdi Kanu could pave the way for peace initiatives, economic revitalisation, and a renewed sense of belonging among South-East citizens.
The letter concluded with an appeal to President Tinubu to adopt this approach, emphasising that facilitating Kanu’s release would demonstrate a commitment to justice and fairness, and could significantly alter the current narrative, showcasing the President’s dedication to national unity and progress.
“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,” the letter read.
“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.
“The lawmakers expressed optimism that President Tinubu would consider their request with the gravity it deserves, taking necessary steps to usher in a new era of peace and inclusivity in Nigeria.
