The South East Caucus in Nigeria’s House of Representatives has appealed to President Bola Tinubu for a state pardon for Nnamdi Kanu, the jailed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). In a joint statement, the lawmakers cited the need for national healing, unity and responsible leadership. While acknowledging the judiciary’s role in Kanu’s conviction, they emphasized that the sentence has broader implications for peace, security and stability in the South‑East and across the country.
The caucus urged the president to use his constitutional powers under Section 175 to grant a political and humanitarian intervention. They argue that Kanu’s continued detention has heightened tension and agitation in the region, despite calls for calm, and that a presidential act of mercy could de‑escalate tensions, restore normalcy and break the cycle of security operations and civil resistance.
The prolonged detention has taken a significant emotional toll on families, communities and the general populace, leading to social disruptions such as closed markets and interrupted schooling. A political resolution, the caucus says, would ease these human burdens and allow communities to return to dignified lives. An act of clemency would be seen as a symbol of inclusiveness, fairness and leadership, prioritising healing over division.
Furthermore, the pardon could open space for broader engagement between the federal government, elected leaders and community stakeholders to chart a sustainable, peaceful path forward. The South East Caucus remains committed to working with the federal government to advance national unity, inclusive governance and lasting stability across all regions. They have called on citizens in the South‑East to remain calm, law‑abiding and supportive of ongoing efforts to secure a peaceful resolution. The presidential pardon is viewed as an investment in Nigeria’s long‑term peace and cohesion, and the caucus hopes President Tinubu will consider their request.
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