The Igede people of the Benue State have pleaded with President Bola Tinubu to, as a matter of conscience, release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to uphold justice, equity and fairness.
In a special appeal letter to the President, signed by the Conveners of the organisation, Obo Mike Omenka and Agori Dennis Eka, Secretary, the natives informed the President that the unjust detention of the Independent People of Biafra, IPOB leader “has left lives in perpetual trauma, properties in constant shambles, and has resulted in significant economic shortfalls in the South Eastern Region and Nigeria as a whole”.
Parts of the letter read, “Having been charged to Court, faced the rigour of criminal trial, Maxi Nnamdi Kanu was discharged and acquitted by Courts of competent jurisdictions, even the appellate Court, Nigeria government under the previous administration in contemptuous and flagrant disregard to rule of law and natural Justice yet continually kept Maxi Nnamdi Kanu in detention, causing civil unrest not only in the South East but across the entire country. This unjust situation has left lives in perpetual trauma, and properties in constant shambles, and has resulted in significant economic shortfalls in the South Eastern Region and Nigeria as a whole.
“We firmly believe that no government can thrive on a foundation of injustice. A region that feels marginalized and voices its grievances deserves genuine inclusiveness or the right to demand freedom. Denying them these fundamental human rights is a stain on our democracy.
“Therefore, we appeal not only to you, Mr. President, but also to advocates of civil liberty, human rights, civil society organizations around the world to raise their voices against this injustice that plagues our collective peace. We feel strongly that the release of Maxi Nnamdi Kanu would bring lasting peace to the South East and contribute to robust economic development in Nigeria.
“We stand in solidarity with the Eastern part of our nation, which is currently in dire need of a voice of reason to prevent further descent into chaos and oblivion. The situation on the ground is evident, with valleys raging, creeks getting muddier, and the path to daily hustles becoming increasingly slippery. People are living in horror and facing unimaginable hardships for a cause within the realm of humanity.
“Mr. President, we urge you to set Maxi Nnamdi Kanu free. By doing so, you will not only bring hope and freedom to the Igbo people but also demonstrate your commitment as the father of our nation to upholding justice, equity, and fairness.
“A man unjustly silenced during civil proceedings is an affront to the very essence of justice. A region relegated to the background in national dialogue is a testament to the height of inequality. Witnessing the violation of human rights by the very institutions meant to protect them is the epitome of unfairness”.
Advising the Igbo political leaders, the natives pleaded, “We implore you to embark on a journey of soul-searching and self-realization. Show sincere support to quell this festering injustice, as exploiting it for personal political gains is an apparent shame. We challenge all Igbo political leaders to wield their red caps, Ofors, sceptres, and all royal insignias, taking a bold stand to engage relevant institutions and authorities to expedite the release of Maxi Nnamdi Kanu.
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