Nnamdi Kanu’s Release Essential for Southeast Peace, Says Emeka Kalu

Emeka Kalu, with the support of fifty federal lawmakers, has urged President Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu. The call highlights the critical need for peace and stability in Southeast Nigeria, stressing the importance of fair treatment and national unity.

In a powerful appeal to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Chief Dr. Emeka Kalu, Director General of Global Initiatives for Good Governance (GIGG), alongside fifty federal lawmakers, has called for the immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from DSS custody. This unified request underscores the urgent need to restore peace and stability in Southeast Nigeria.

Kalu expressed his deep gratitude to the Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in Southeast for their boldness and commitment in addressing the President. He highlighted that the continued detention of Kanu has led to severe economic loss, security decay, and political instability in the region.

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who was illegally arrested in Kenya, remains detained despite rulings from both the Appeal and Supreme Court affirming his illegal detention. Kalu emphasized that the detention is not only unjust but also detrimental to national unity and peace.

The Concerned Federal Lawmakers, representing various geopolitical units, have rallied behind Kalu’s call, advocating for Kanu’s unconditional release. Kalu pointed out that the agitation for self-government should not be equated with terrorism. He stressed that Kanu has consistently rejected violence and has only sought the liberation of Biafra through peaceful means.

Kalu, who envisions a united Nigeria free from corruption, marginalization, and ethnic bigotry, stated that Nigeria’s unity has been hindered by ethnic and linguistic differences. He argued that political appointments and fair treatment should transcend these divisions to foster national cohesion.

Kalu also noted that Kanu has shown willingness to negotiate and reach an understanding with the government, which could lead to a resolution of the agitation for self-rule. He underscored the Southeast’s long-standing neglect in development projects and infrastructure, a situation that has fueled the region’s desire for self-determination.

Comparing Kanu’s situation with that of Chief Sunday Igboho, who was released shortly after President Tinubu’s inauguration, Kalu stressed the need for fair treatment across all ethnic groups. He criticized the DSS for disregarding court orders to transfer Kanu to Kuje correctional centre, instead keeping him in solitary confinement.

Kalu concluded by stating that for Nigeria to progress, it must embrace fair treatment of all citizens. He called for the end of undue political sentiment and the promotion of national unity and love for the common good.

The appeal for Nnamdi Kanu’s release, championed by Emeka Kalu and supported by federal lawmakers, represents a crucial step towards restoring peace and stability in Southeast Nigeria, ultimately fostering a more united and prosperous nation.