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Oscar Okhifo

Despite Nnamdi Kanu’s life sentence, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu says all hope is not lost for the IPOB leader, calling for a political approach to secure his release and urging calm in the South-East.

Kalu said that with the judicial process concluded, efforts could now focus on a political solution to secure Kanu’s freedom.

He encouraged Nigerians, particularly in the South-East, to remain patient while political channels are explored.

“It is now time to explore political solutions that had been hindered because the matter was before the court. But now that the court has finished, it is time to intensify requests for the President’s intervention.

“We are going to get it. All hope is not lost,” Kalu said.

The Deputy Speaker expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be receptive to pleas from well-meaning Igbo leaders and would consider intervening in Kanu’s case.

Kalu described such a move as essential for fostering peace and stability in the region.

His comments come amid heightened tensions in the South-East, where many have followed Kanu’s trial closely.

Community leaders had previously warned that a harsh judgment could escalate unrest in the area.

A long-time advocate for political engagement, Kalu has repeatedly urged the federal government to combine justice with mercy, suggesting that Kanu’s release could contribute to reducing insecurity in the South-East.

Although details of any political intervention remain unclear, Kalu’s remarks mark a shift from legal battles to political efforts, giving Kanu’s supporters renewed optimism that a resolution could still be achieved.