The Abia State House of Assembly allegedly has formally written to President Bola Ahm Tinubu, GCFR, appealing for the āunconditional releaseā of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The letter, signed by the leadership of the Assembly, acknowledges the Presidentās constitutional authority and seeks his intervention in the interest of peace, national unity, and regional stability.
The lawmakers noted that President Tinubu has, on several occasions, demonstrated openness to dialogue, reconciliation, and nation-building, and they believe his leadership provides a unique opportunity to address longstanding concerns in the South-East.
Purpose of the Assemblyās Appeal
The Abia House explained that its request is motivated by:
- A desire to promote peace and stability in the South-East
- Concerns about the economic disruptions caused by unrest and sit-at-home orders
- The need to restore normalcy and boost investor confidence in the region
- The belief that a political approach, under the Presidentās guidance, may help resolve tensions
The Assembly emphasized that its appeal does not endorse any unlawful activity but rather seeks a national healing process that strengthens unity.
Message to President Tinubu
In the letter, the lawmakers expressed confidence in President Tinubuās leadership, describing him as a statesman capable of using dialogue to address sensitive national issues.
They appealed to him to consider exercising his constitutional powers to enable a political resolution that promotes peace across the federation.
The Assembly also stressed that Kanuās release, if granted, could empower South-East leaders to engage more effectively in peace advocacy and community reconciliation.
Calls from Stakeholders
The Assemblyās action aligns with ongoing appeals from:
- Traditional rulers
- Clergy and religious organizations
- Civil society advocates
- Business leaders and community groups
These stakeholders argue that a political solutionāguided by the Presidentāwould ease regional tensions and support economic recovery.
Legal and National Outlook
While acknowledging that the matter has legal dimensions, the Assembly maintained that the broader implications for national unity, security, and economic stability warrant consideration from the highest levels of government.
The lawmakers expressed confidence that President Tinubu, known for his long-standing commitment to democratic values and national cohesion, will give thoughtful attention to their appeal.
Possible Outcomes
Should the President choose to grant the request, analysts believe it could:
- Strengthen peace efforts in the South-East
- Help end sit-at-home disruptions
- Encourage economic activities to rebound
- Promote trust and cooperation between the federal government and South-East citizens
Regardless of the decision, the Assembly stated its respect for the Presidentās final judgment and reiterated its commitment to lawful engagement.
Awaiting Presidential Response
The Presidency has not yet issued an official reply, but expectations are high that the appeal will be given due consideration in line with President Tinubuās ongoing efforts to promote unity, stability, and dialogue nationwide.
The Abia State House of Assembly reaffirmed its intention to continue working with the federal government under President Tinubuās leadership to advance peace and development across Nigeria.
References
- https://thewhistler.ng/abia-lawmaker-urges-tinubu-to-release-nnamdi-kanu/
- https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/01/abaribe-confident-tinubu-will-free-nnamdi-kanu-vows-to-stand-as-guarantor/
- https://independent.ng/igbo-american-military-veterans-write-tinubu-demand-unconditional-release-of-ipob-leader-nnamdi-kanu/
- https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/09/igbo-elders-storm-abia-govt-house-demand-kanus-release/
