Bianca Ojukwu Calls for Calm, Dialogue After Nnamdi Kanu’s Life Sentence

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has urged Nigerians, especially Ndigbo, to embrace calm and pursue dialogue following the sentencing of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment by a Federal High Court in Abuja.

Justice James Omotosho, who delivered the ruling on Thursday, convicted Kanu on multiple counts of terrorism. He handed down life sentences on counts one, two, four, five and six. On count three, which relates to membership of a proscribed terrorist organisation, the judge imposed a 20-year jail term without the option of a fine. For count seven, involving the unlawful importation of a radio transmitter used for Radio Biafra, Kanu received a five-year term.

The judge noted that Kanu had been unruly throughout the trial and said the law permitted a death sentence for the terrorism charges. However, he opted for leniency, stating that his Christian faith compelled him to show mercy. He further ordered that Kanu be held in protective custody in a secure location outside Kuje Prison and directed that the seized radio transmitter be forfeited to the Federal Government.

Reacting in a post on X after returning from a monitoring assignment in Zanzibar, Ojukwu acknowledged that the court’s decision was disappointing to many but stressed that the moment called for restraint.

“This is not the outcome we anticipated or prayed for, but it is now our reality,” she wrote. “There comes a time in the life of a people when calm is essential. That time is now. I urge Ndigbo and Nigerians to exercise utmost restraint in responding to this development.”

She cautioned against actions, both at home and abroad, that could inflame tensions, warning that “beating the drums of fury” would only worsen the situation.

Ojukwu called for a broad-based consultation involving Igbo leaders, governors, lawmakers, clergy, traditional rulers, and business figures to engage the Federal Government collectively in constructive dialogue.

“The quest for justice, equity and dignity for Ndigbo within Nigeria requires our collective resolve,” she said. “Maintaining peace and order is vital for the safety of all citizens, regardless of ethnicity.”

She expressed optimism that a peaceful and politically negotiated resolution remained possible, urging patience and unity.

“For years, I have engaged stakeholders on these issues. Now more than ever, all South-East states must work together sincerely to pursue a political solution to this matter.”