Hon Kama Nkemkanma, the lawmaker representing Ohaozara, Onicha, and Ivo Federal Constituency, has made a passionate appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to facilitate the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In an open letter dated February 7, 2025, titled “Appeal for the Release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu: The Law is the Law, But Let Mercy Prevail Over Judgment,” Hon. Kama called on the President to temper justice with mercy. He emphasized that Kanu’s continued detention has contributed to economic hardship, social instability, and escalating violence in the South East region.
Kanu has been in detention since June 27, 2021, facing treason charges. While acknowledging the seriousness of the accusations, Hon. Kama urged the President to consider the broader implications of his prolonged incarceration.
“I understand the gravity of this charge. However, my appeal stems from the collateral damage it has caused—the escalating socio-economic crisis, human suffering in the South East, and my belief in your leadership as a beacon of national unity and reconciliation in line with your ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’” he stated.
The lawmaker highlighted how Kanu’s arrest has fueled unrest, with criminal elements hijacking peaceful protests to enforce the illegal Monday sit-at-home order. This, he noted, has crippled businesses in major commercial hubs like Onitsha and Aba, driven investors away, and resulted in an estimated N7.6 trillion loss in two years.
Hon. Kama also pointed out that students in the region have suffered, with many missing crucial West African Examination Council (WAEC) papers due to the enforced lockdowns. He warned that criminal gangs have exploited the unrest to spread terror, leading to increased kidnappings, killings, and destruction of property.
According to him, the South East is now divided into two factions—“Patriots,” who seek peaceful dialogue within Nigeria, and “Traitors,” who use Kanu’s case to justify crime and violence. He urged President Tinubu to act swiftly to restore order and prevent further devastation.
“Sir, your tenure has been marked by bold steps to heal Nigeria’s fractures and rebuild trust. You have magnanimously signed the South East Development Commission (SEDC) into law after 50 years, signaling your willingness to develop the region. However, like Oliver Twist, we ask for more—mercy for Nnamdi Kanu,” Hon. Kama pleaded.
He stressed that Kanu’s release could bring about economic revival, security stabilization, and political reconciliation, helping to isolate the real criminals from law-abiding citizens. He urged Tinubu to seize this historic moment to demonstrate strong, compassionate leadership that fosters unity.
“By facilitating Nnamdi Kanu’s release, you will send a powerful message of national healing, reaffirming your commitment to a just and fair Nigeria where grievances are resolved through dialogue. History shows that magnanimity in leadership often quells strife more effectively than any other means,” he added.