Ebonyi Rep Member Calls For Release Of Kanu

ABAKALIKI – The Member, representing, Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo Fed­eral Constituency, Hon Kama Nkemkanma, has pleaded with President Bola Ahmed Tinu­bu, to free the detained leader of the Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

In an open letter dated 7th February, 2025a and titled, “Appeal for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu: the Law is the Law But let Mercy Prevail over Judgement”, the Lawmaker said he was compelled to write President Tinubu due to the urgent need to restore restore peace, stability, and economic prosperity to the South East region.

Kama who is the Chairman, House Committee on Climate Change, called on the President to temper justice with mercy and facilitate the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Kanu has been detained by the Nigerian Court since June 27th 2021, on charges of treason.

“I understand the gravity of this charge, however, my appeal stems from the collat­eral damage accrued as its result as well as my concern for the escalating socio-eco­nomic crisis and human suf­ferings in South East, and my belief in your leadership as a beacon of national unity and reconciliation in line with your “Renewed Hope Agenda”, Hon Kama stated.

The Lawmaker said since Kanu was arrested, the South East had been witnessing heightened tensions, with peaceful calls for his release hijacked and overshadowed by violent attacks from crim­inal elements, who he said, have exploited his detention, through the disruptive, illegal and unpopular Monday Sit-at- Home order.

“This has perpetuated vio­lence and intimidation, para­lyzing commerce, education, and social life. It has disrupted businesses in thriving hubs like the Main market in Onit­sha and Ariaria International market in Aba, eroding the re­gion’s economic vitality.

“Worse still, these criminal syndicates have taken advan­tage of this unrest to promote and propagate other unethi­cal and ungodly practices leading to a surge in kidnap­pings, killings, and property destruction.

“These have inevitably led to companies shutting down, investors fleeing, rising unem­ployment, creating a climate of fear and instability with many towns now ghosted for fear of being exterminated by these criminals.”