On Thursday, the South East Caucus in the Senate urged President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government to abide by the Appeal Court’s decision ordering the immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The Caucus also urged the FG not to appeal the decision at the Supreme Court, urging the presidency instead to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the Appeal Court decision and consider political solutions to resolve the lingering issue in the interest of the country’s unity and the peaceful coexistence of Nigerians.
The Caucus issued a warning that turning to the Supreme Court would spark a variety of interpretations, which would be detrimental to the nation’s unity and business existence.
“We should be mindful of our diversity and the strengths we as a country derive there from. This is the time to show magnanimity and statesmanship. The Appeal Court has provided the leeway for the authorities to walk the talk as one desirous of preserving Nigeria’s unity and respect for her diversity.
“Not appealing the matter and resorting to a political solution will in no way question the enormous powers of the federal government, rather it would enhance its prestige as a government in love with all segments of the Nigerian society.
“Accordingly, we as a Caucus and stakeholders in the Nigeria project appeal to Mr President, to remember the promise he made to a delegation of elders of Igboland sometime ago and release Nnamdi Kanu, especially now that the Appeal Court by that ruling removed the burden of interference from him. Going on Appeal would ultimately negate that kind gesture,” the Caucus stated.
The statement was signed by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Majority Whip), Senator Chukwuka Utazi (Minority Whip), Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Senator Uche Ekwunife (Iyom), Senator Stella Oduah, Senator Sam Egwu, and Senator Obinna Ogba, Senator T A Orji (Ochendo).
Others are: Senator Chimaroke Nnamani, Senator Micheal Nnachi, Senator Onyewuchi Ezenwa, Senator Rochas Okorocha, Senator Frank Ibezim, and Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Uba.