Release Kanu, Sen Umeh Urges President Tinubu

OMAH Ngozi, Awka,

Senator Victor Umeh has indeed called on President Bola Tinubu to release and pardon Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.

Umeh, who described Kanu's prolonged detention without trial as unnecesaary, compared his case to that of Omoyele Sowore and Sunday Igboho, who were pardoned and set free. Here are some key points to consider. 

He noted that Kanu has been in the custody of Nigeria's Department of State Services, DSS, since June 27, 2021, when he was arrested in Kenya and extradited to Nigeria to face charges including terrorism and treasonable felony. According to him, Sowore and Igboho were released and pardoned for similar offenses, sparking questions about why Kanu is being treated differently.

While describing Kanu as a freedom fighter advocating for the well-being of his people, Umeh arguing that his release would demonstrate Nigeria's unity and commitment to its citizens. He therefore called for his immediate release pointing out that the gesture would ease tensions particularly in the Southeast region.

Umeh added Kanu's release would have significant implications for the region, potentially reducing violence and promoting stability, noting that pressure has been mounting on the government to release Kanu, with some lawmakers and governors from the Southeast region advocating for his freedom.

The South-East Governors Forum has also resolved to meet with President Tinubu to discuss Kanu's release.