In a heartfelt plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Elder Statesman Chief Chekwas Okorie has reiterated his call for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Okorie emphasized the suffering Kanu has endured since his initial arrest in 2015, culminating in his extraordinary rendition from Kenya on June 27, 2021. As the legal process surrounding Kanu’s case takes another turn, Okorie believes that now is the perfect time for the president to act.
The Long Ordeal of Nnamdi Kanu
Since 2015, Kanu has been at the center of a legal battle that has drawn national and international attention. His extraordinary rendition—widely condemned as a violation of international law—has only intensified calls for his release. With the recent administrative intervention by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the case is now set to be re-instituted afresh. This new legal development presents a crucial opportunity for President Tinubu to take decisive action.
A Call for Presidential Intervention
Chief Okorie argues that President Tinubu has the power to bring an end to Kanu’s protracted incarceration by directing the Attorney General to enter a nolle prosequi—a legal move that would lead to Kanu’s discharge and acquittal. While Tinubu inherited this legal and political burden from past administrations, governance is a continuum, and he now has the chance to right past wrongs.
The Embarrassment of Kanu’s Detention
Kanu’s continued detention is not just a domestic issue—it has become a global embarrassment for Nigeria. He has become a symbol of the Igbo people’s struggle for justice, equity, and fairness. His imprisonment serves as a painful reminder of the marginalization felt by many in the Southeast region, further deepening resentment and unrest.
The Economic and Security Benefits of Kanu’s Release
Beyond the legal and moral arguments, Okorie highlights the tangible benefits that Kanu’s release would bring to the Southeast. The region has suffered economically and security-wise due to the unrest linked to his continued detention. By setting him free, the government could pave the way for greater stability, economic revitalization, and improved national cohesion.
A Political Opportunity for Tinubu
Granting Kanu freedom at this time would not only be a bold step toward justice but also a strategic political move. It would send a strong message of reconciliation and fairness, potentially winning President Tinubu support from the Southeast and beyond.
A Plea for Compassion and Leadership
Chief Okorie’s appeal is clear: President Tinubu has the opportunity to correct an ongoing injustice and foster national unity. By facilitating Kanu’s release, he can help heal deep-seated wounds, enhance Nigeria’s global image, and reinforce his legacy as a leader committed to justice and fairness.
The time to act is now.
