From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
There have been more strident calls for the release of detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, the latest coming from a
former member of Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Obinna Ichita and the Eze Igbo 1 of Maitama, Abuja, Eze David Kingston Okey-Dede.
In separate statements, both men sought the intervention of President Bola Tinubu in the release Kanu who has been in detention, saying that would quell the spate of insecurity in the South East.
In a statement, Hon Ichita said the release of Kanu would not only bring to an end to insecurity in the South East, but will also ensure economic rejuvenation.
“I appeal to President Bola Tinubu to kindly intervene and graciously approve and direct the activation of a process that will see to the release of Kanu and the restoration of peace and security in South East through negotiation and alternative dispute resolution mechanism.
“A timely commencement of this process will achieve the desired objective. Further delay may defeat this goal as some may view such gesture as a mere political strategy.
“The effects of the release of Kanu by President Tinubu may be analysed from different perspectives: security, commerce, transportation, politics and diplomacy.”
The former lawmaker said many were in agreement that the release of Kanu by the President will not only portray the President as a unifier, will also showcase Nigeria as another example of Africans solving their problems without “external directives.”
Ichita who informed that in the last two weeks he had had a series of meetings with Kanu at the DSS Headquarters, Abuja, noted that at such meetings, peace was the central issue discussed.
He said it was unfortunate that South East leaders do not seem to see the need to approach Mr. President and seek for his intervention for a peaceful resolution of the issues between Kanu and the Federal Government.
“Many people have cancelled their planned trips to the South East this festive season due to many incidents of kidnapping and attacks on security operatives. Yet the political leaders of the region do not seem to be bothered about this security challenge in their areas of responsibility.”
Ichita expressed optimism that the social and political issues which are germane for the restoration of peace and security in the South East could be resolved through conversations.
Speaking in like terms, Eze Okey-Dede, said freedom for Kanu would help end insecurity in the South East region.
Eze Okey-Dede expressed concern over the spite of insecurity in the South East region, blaming it on the continued incarceration of Kanu.
“Our beloved South East region is currently engulfed in fear and insecurity, including economic stagnation; it is facing one of its most challenging periods in recent history
“Central to this crisis is the incarceration of our son, Nnamdi Kanu. His ongoing detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) has become a symbol of the larger grievances faced by Ndi Igbo in Nigeria.”
Eze Okey-Dede emphasised the need to address the root causes of these challenges, rather than merely treating the symptoms.
“The cry for self-determination must not be ignored; it should be channeled through dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect. I call on the Federal Government to prioritise justice and fairness by releasing Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally.
“His release would not only quell the growing agitation, but also pave the way for meaningful discussions about our nation’s future.”
He cautioned against violent protests, stating: “While we demand justice from the government, we must also hold ourselves accountable. Destructive actions such as burning our homes, shutting down markets, and attacking our own in the name of protest only serve to weaken our collective strength.”
He called for a unity for purpose for the Igbo wherever they are globally, adding that division would weaken the Igbo spirit and strength which stands them out.
While praying for the Igbo nation to excel, he used the occasion to give awards to some notable sons and daughters of Ndi Igbo; among them were Mrs. Ebelechukwu Okafor Aniche, Martin Eze Chief Emeka Ike and Chief (Mrs) Becky Ketebu Igwe.