South-East governors announced on Tuesday their intention to engage with the federal government to secure the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. This decision was part of the statement released following a meeting of the Forum in Enugu.
Present at the meeting were governors Hope Uzodinma, Dr. Alex Otti, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru representing Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi states respectively, along with the host, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State. The discussion was also attended by other stakeholders.
This move follows Kanu’s expressed readiness to pursue an out-of-court settlement with the Nigerian Government amidst his ongoing trial for charges related to terrorism. Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, informed the Federal High Court in Abuja on June 19, 2024, about this intention, following discussions with the government’s counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo.
Although Awomolo clarified that he lacked specific instructions to negotiate directly, Justice Binta Nyako indicated openness to negotiation and suggested Kanu approach the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).
Meanwhile, a group of about 50 federal lawmakers known as Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the South East urged President Bola Tinubu to consider using constitutional provisions for Kanu’s release. In a letter dated June 19, 2024, they called for a presidential peace initiative to address regional challenges.
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also supported calls for Kanu’s release, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and advocating for the release of all similarly detained individuals.
Legal expert Madubuachi Idam viewed Kanu’s move towards an out-of-court settlement positively, asserting it could provide an opportunity for Kanu to articulate his grievances and demands to the government.
Alex Ogbonnia of Ohanaeze emphasized the need for a political solution to Kanu’s case, suggesting it could help ease tensions in the Southeast region.
Conversely, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) expressed the view that Kanu’s fate should be determined by the court based on available evidence, advocating for legal due process.
AYCF President Yerima Shettima urged the government to consider constitutional amendments regarding self-determination issues, stressing the need for legal clarity on such matters.
Shettima also cautioned that Kanu and other leaders had lost control of the agitation, leading to criminal elements exploiting the situation for their gain.
In summary, the efforts to resolve Kanu’s case involve legal, political, and constitutional considerations amidst broader implications for regional stability and governance in Nigeria.
