About 50 members of the House of Representatives, representing various regions and political parties in Nigeria, have come together under the banner of Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the South East.
In a heartfelt appeal to President Bola Tinubu, they are urging him to invoke constitutional provisions for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), with the aim of restoring peace in the South East.
The lawmakers, hailing from diverse political backgrounds and regions across the nation, are also calling on President Tinubu to initiate a comprehensive peace initiative to address the challenges facing the southeast region of Nigeria.
In a three-page letter dated June 19, 2024, and addressed to the President, the lawmakers express their concerns and propose a way forward for lasting peace in the region.
They emphasize the urgent need for President Tinubu to exercise his powers under Section 174 of the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, in order to secure the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
They argue that this action will pave the way for constructive dialogue and inclusive discussions on peace restoration, as well as addressing the underlying issues that have fueled the agitation.
The lawmakers also appeal to President Tinubu to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, to utilize his powers to discontinue the trial of Nnamdi Kanu through the doctrine of nolle prosequi. They draw attention to similar actions taken in other cases, such as those of Omoyele Sowore and Sunday Igboho.
The concerned legislators express deep concern about the current state of turmoil and insecurity in the South-East, which has resulted in economic decline, displacement of families, and the collapse of businesses.
They firmly believe that addressing the challenges in the region will not only change the narrative but also demonstrate the President’s commitment to upholding the principles of the rule of law, justice, and fairness, which are the pillars of our democracy.
They stress that a dialogue-based approach, rather than prolonged political and judicial persecution, is the key to fostering peace initiatives, revitalizing the economy, and creating a renewed sense of unity and belonging among the citizens of the southeast.
The lawmakers express optimism that President Tinubu will respond positively to their appeal, as it aligns with his administration’s vision of national unity, peace, and progress.
This united plea from concerned federal lawmakers highlights the urgency of addressing the challenges in the South East and emphasizes the importance of dialogue and inclusivity in the pursuit of lasting peace and progress for the region.
