44 Lawmakers Urge Tinubu to Free Nnamdi Kanu, Seek Political Solution for South-East Crisist

Forty-four members of the House of Representatives have appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to exercise his constitutional authority by ordering the release of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and initiating a political dialogue aimed at restoring peace in the South-East.

The lawmakers, cutting across political parties, regions, and religious backgrounds, described Kanu’s continued detention as a “critical obstacle” to peace-building efforts in the region. They stressed that only a sincere political process, grounded in dialogue and inclusion, could effectively address the insecurity and socio-political agitation in the South-East.

In a two-page letter signed under the platform Concerned Federal Lawmakers for National Unity and Stability, the legislators urged President Tinubu to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation to discontinue Kanu’s prosecution and convene a nationwide stakeholders’ dialogue.

The letter, coordinated by Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, was endorsed by lawmakers from both northern and southern blocs, including Hon. Obi Aguocha, Hon. Murphy Osaro, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Mudashiru Lukman, Hon. Paul Nnamchi, Hon. Sunday Cyriacus, Hon. Obed Shehu, Hon. Ugwu Emmanuel, Hon. Daniel Asama Ago, Hon. Chike Okafor, and Hon. Adam Ogene.

Additional signatories include Hon. Emeka Martins Chinedu, Hon. Chimaobi Sam, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, Hon. Donatus Matthew, Hon. Ibe Osonwa, Barr. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, Hon. Thaddeus Atta, Hon. Udema Okonkwo, Hon. Cyril Godwin, and Hon. Princess Chinwe Nnabuike.

Others are Hon. Kana Nkemkama, Hon. Maureen Gwachem, Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu, Hon. Joseph Nwobosi, Hon. Amobi Godwin, Hon. Blessing Amadi, Hon. Anthony Adepoju, Hon. Joshua Gana, Hon. Chris Nkwonta, Hon. Emeka Idu, Hon. Peter Uzokwe, Hon. Matthew Nwogu, Hon. Tochukwu Okere, Hon. Benedict Etanabene, Hon. Godwin Offiono, Hon. Ngozi Okolie, and Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi.

Citing favourable domestic court rulings and international tribunal decisions, the lawmakers noted that growing public calls for Kanu’s release underscore a national desire for reconciliation and unity.

“Guided by the urgent need for national healing, and considering ongoing negotiations with other agitating groups across the country, we respectfully urge Mr President to direct the Attorney-General to discontinue the prosecution of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” the letter read in part.

They expressed confidence that Kanu’s release, alongside a broad-based political engagement, would ease tensions, rebuild trust, and reaffirm the government’s commitment to national cohesion.

The lawmakers concluded by expressing optimism that President Tinubu would give their appeal swift and favourable consideration.