Nnamdi Kanu: Ohanaeze, Arewa Youths Weigh In on Proposed Political Solution

 

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu

Southeast governors have announced plans to engage with the federal government for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. This decision was part of a communiqué issued after a meeting in Enugu, attended by Governors Hope Uzodinma, Dr. Alex Otti, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, and host Governor Peter Mbah. The move follows Kanu's willingness to negotiate an out-of-court settlement with the Nigerian Government.

Legal Proceedings and Calls for Reconciliation

On June 19, 2024, Kanu, through his lawyer Aloy Ejimakor, informed the Federal High Court in Abuja of his intention to seek reconciliation. Despite this, the federal counsel Adegboyega Awomolo stated that he had no instructions to negotiate and directed Kanu to the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF). Judge Binta Nyako encouraged negotiations but reiterated that Kanu should approach the AGF for further discussions.

Legislative and Political Support for Kanu's Release

Approximately 50 members of the House of Representatives, under the banner of concerned federal lawmakers for Peace and Security in the Southeast, have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to invoke constitutional powers to release Kanu. They urged President Tinubu to initiate a presidential peace initiative to address the region's challenges. Peter Obi, the Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, also supports Kanu's release, emphasizing the importance of rule of law and peace.

Perspectives from Legal Experts and Activists

Activist lawyer Madubuachi Idam commended Kanu's decision to seek an out-of-court settlement, viewing it as a prudent move to voice grievances and negotiate peacefully. He stressed that Kanu's continued detention is counterproductive and urged the government to listen and negotiate.

Ohanaeze's Stance on Political Solutions

Ohanaeze Ndigbo's National Public Secretary, Alex Ogbonnia, emphasized the need for a political solution to quell insecurity in the Southeast. He noted that Kanu's release would address fundamental issues of marginalization and foster peace in the region.

Arewa Youths Advocate for Judicial Decision

Contrarily, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) believes the court should decide Kanu's fate. AYCF National President Yerima Shettima stressed that Kanu should face trial and be judged based on evidence. Shettima also called for constitutional amendments to allow for self-determination and referendums, aligning with international agreements.

Conclusion

The proposed political solution for Nnamdi Kanu has garnered varied responses from different groups and individuals. While Southeast governors and numerous lawmakers advocate for Kanu's release to foster peace and address regional grievances, others like the AYCF insist on judicial processes and constitutional amendments to handle self-determination claims.