Hon Obi Aguocha, the member representing Ikwuano, Umuahia North, and Umuahia South Federal Constituency of Abia State, has written an urgent appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling for the invocation of Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution to discontinue the prosecution of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In the strongly worded letter addressed to the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Aguocha described the continued prosecution and detention of Kanu as a matter that has moved beyond legal boundaries into a constitutional and national crisis. He stressed that the legal process has become a catalyst for heightened regional tension and has failed to serve the ends of justice.
Aguocha explained that Section 174 of the Constitution empowers the Attorney General of the Federation to enter a nolle prosequi in the interest of justice and public peace. He cited Supreme Court precedents that affirm the Attorney General’s discretion in discontinuing criminal trials when continuation may cause more harm to society.
The lawmaker warned that the situation in the South East has worsened into a humanitarian and economic crisis, with the persistent sit at home paralysis straining commerce, disrupting education, and fostering widespread insecurity. He insisted that the Constitution not only permits intervention in such moments but compels it in the interest of national stability.
Aguocha also raised constitutional concerns regarding the charges against Kanu, noting issues of retroactive criminalisation and the controversial manner of his rendition from Kenya. He argued that the State cannot benefit from an illegal process, adding that continuing the trial risks validating unconstitutional conduct.
In the final part of his letter, Aguocha outlined three key dividends he believes the country would gain from the release of Kanu. They include strengthening Nigeria’s image in global statesmanship, fostering reconciliation with the Igbo nation, and advancing national unity through de escalation and renewed cooperation.
He stated that releasing Kanu would be a bold affirmation of the President’s commitment to justice, peace, and the rule of law. Aguocha urged President Tinubu to embrace this moment as a historic opportunity to heal the nation and restore hope to millions who desire inclusion.
According to the lawmaker, the single act of invoking a nolle prosequi would open the pathway to lasting peace and help Nigeria move forward from a period of division and fear.
Hon Obinna Aguocha concluded the letter with a passionate appeal to the President to act with courage and constitutional vision at this decisive moment in the nation’s history.
