A member of the House of Representatives, Obi Aguocha, on Thursday appealed to Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja to show mercy to the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, as the court prepared to deliver its sentencing decision.
Aguocha, who represents the Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in Abia State, appeared in court to make a personal plea on behalf of Kanu, whom he described as a brother, friend, and constituent.
Introducing himself, he said, “My lord, I am the direct representative of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. That is why you see me here almost every time, showing presence and solidarity with him.”
Aguocha explained that he and Kanu attended primary and secondary school together and, despite being Kanu’s senior, felt a personal responsibility to speak on his behalf—particularly as a federal lawmaker.
He urged the court to temper justice with mercy, stressing the wider implications of the case for peace and stability in the South-East and across Nigeria.
“My lord, I plead for mercy, I plead for clemency, and I appeal for peace and stability—not just in the South-East, but in Nigeria. Nigeria is bleeding, and we must find common solutions to our common problems,” Aguocha said.
He also called on the prosecution to consider the broader context of insecurity, noting that other actors outside the courtroom “are also doing worse” than Kanu.
He reminded the court that Kanu’s trial has lasted nearly a decade and that the defendant, now in his mid-50s, has been absent from his family and community for years.
“I plead for the lord to show mercy and temper justice with mercy. I am a friend of the court, and I appreciate the opportunity to address you,” Aguocha concluded, thanking the court for allowing him to speak.
Justice Omotosho later convicted Kanu on all seven counts of terrorism brought against him. He then adjourned proceedings and instructed those wishing to witness the sentencing to return to court at 3:45 p.m.
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