In a recent interview, Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, emphasized the need for peace and security in the South-east region before demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Kanu stands accused of terrorism and is currently being held in the SSS facility in Abuja.
Kalu asserted that the South-east’s objective of securing Kanu’s release could only be achieved through peaceful negotiations, not by coercing the federal government. He criticized some efforts from the South-east leadership, stating that they amounted to mere grandstanding without strategic thinking.
Addressing the widely held belief that Kanu’s release would automatically restore peace to the region, Kalu highlighted the importance of strategic planning and dialogue with the government. He discouraged tactics like the enforced sit-at-home protests and violent demonstrations, emphasizing that such actions would not compel the government to release Kanu. Instead, he advocated for a diplomatic approach.
Furthermore, Kalu cautioned against issuing threats to the federal government, stating that such actions would be detrimental to the region. He rebuked the idea of burning down the region, emphasizing that it would only harm the South-east and not impact the federal government’s decision-making.
Additionally, Kalu defended President Bola Tinubu against accusations from the South-east, emphasizing that Tinubu had not committed any wrongdoing against the region. He praised the president for appointing individuals from the South-east to significant positions and called for unity and support for his advocacy for peace in the South-east region.
In conclusion, the Deputy Speaker urged armed individuals in the South-east to surrender their weapons to the security agencies and expressed hope that the federal government would grant them amnesty in exchange for embracing peace. His message underscored the importance of diplomacy, strategic thinking, and peaceful dialogue in pursuing the release of Nnamdi Kanu, presenting a nuanced perspective on the complex dynamics at play in Nigeria’s South-east region.
