The Abia State House of Assembly has resolved to embark on a peaceful march to Abuja to press for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The decision followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by the Deputy Speaker, Mr. Austin Mmeregini, during Tuesday’s plenary session. The lawmakers also reaffirmed their alignment with Governor Alex Otti, other South-East governors, and regional stakeholders who have continued to advocate Kanu’s release on medical grounds.
Recalling Governor Otti’s recent assurance during a project inauguration that discussions were ongoing among South-East governors to secure Kanu’s freedom, Mmeregini, representing Umuahia East Constituency, expressed deep concern over Kanu’s deteriorating health and urged fellow lawmakers to throw their full support behind these efforts. He further called on South-East National Assembly members and Ohanaeze Ndigbo to intensify their advocacy for Kanu’s medical treatment and eventual release.
In his contribution, Mr. Isiehi Boniface (Ikwuano Constituency) suggested that the Abia Assembly should visit the National Assembly to meet with the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives, after which a joint press briefing should be held. Also speaking, Kalu Nwoke (Ohafia South) lamented that Kanu’s continued detention had worsened insecurity in parts of Ohafia, despite Governor Otti’s peace initiatives.
Reacting, Speaker Emmanuel Emeruwa criticised the Federal Government’s refusal to comply with a valid court order granting Kanu bail, describing it as a violation of the rule of law. “It appears Nigeria operates two systems of justice,” he said. “Nnamdi Kanu has not been convicted, and his offence is not unbailable
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