A traditional ruler from Nigeria’s Southeast has called on President Bola Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu or facilitate his return to Kenya, where he was arrested in 2021. The monarch made the appeal amid ongoing legal proceedings involving the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The royal father urged the Federal Government to consider what he described as a political and diplomatic solution to Kanu’s prolonged detention. He argued that resolving the matter would help ease tensions in the Southeast and promote national reconciliation.
Kanu, who leads IPOB, has been in the custody of the Department of State Services since he was brought back to Nigeria from Kenya. The circumstances surrounding his arrest and extradition have remained a subject of legal and political debate.
The monarch stated that continued detention has heightened agitation in parts of the Southeast. He warned that the situation could further strain relations between the region and the Federal Government if not handled with sensitivity.
According to him, releasing Kanu or returning him to Kenya would demonstrate goodwill and a commitment to dialogue. He maintained that such a move could open the door for broader discussions aimed at addressing grievances in the region.
Kanu is facing charges bordering on terrorism and other offenses filed by the Federal Government. His legal team has challenged aspects of the case, including the legality of his extradition.
In previous rulings, courts have delivered varying decisions on his detention and trial. The matter remains before the judiciary, with hearings continuing as both sides present arguments.
The monarch emphasized that traditional leaders in the Southeast are concerned about the impact of the prolonged case on security and economic activities. He noted that sit-at-home orders and related unrest have affected businesses and daily life in some areas.
He appealed to President Tinubu to use his office to find a lasting solution within the framework of the law. The monarch also called for engagement with stakeholders across the region to reduce tensions.
Supporters of Kanu have consistently demanded his release, arguing that his detention is unjust. The Federal Government, however, has maintained that the charges against him must be resolved through due process.
Political observers say the call from a respected traditional ruler adds to growing pressure for a political resolution. They note that the administration faces the challenge of balancing national security concerns with calls for dialogue and reconciliation.
There has been no immediate response from the Presidency regarding the monarch’s latest appeal. Government officials have previously reiterated their commitment to allowing the courts to determine the outcome of the case.
The issue remains one of the most sensitive political matters in the Southeast. As legal proceedings continue, stakeholders across the country are watching closely for any shift in the government’s position.
