Lawmakers from the South East in the House of Representatives have urged President Bola Tinubu to exercise his constitutional powers toward a political and humanitarian resolution of the case involving detained leader of the Indigenous People of BiafraI (POB), Nnamdi Kanu.
Speaking after a caucus meeting in Abuja on Monday, November 24, the caucus leader, Hon. Enwo Igariwey, said members reviewed the recent judgment and its implications for peace and stability in the region.
He said the lawmakers respect the judiciary but believe the issue has grown into a wider national concern with humanitarian, economic, and security consequences.
According to him, Kanu’s continued detention has contributed to persistent tension, disrupted economic activity, and strained community life in the Southeast.
“Despite numerous calls for calm, the atmosphere remains strained. A presidential act of mercy at this time has the potential to de-escalate tensions, restore normalcy, and reduce the cycle of security operations and civil resistance.
“Beyond its political nature, this matter has taken a deep emotional toll on families, communities, and the general population. The Southeast has experienced profound social disruptions, closed markets, interrupted schooling, reduced commercial activity, and fear.
Igariwey noted that a presidential pardon under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution could help calm the situation, restore normalcy, and encourage constructive engagement between the federal government and regional stakeholders.
“Nigeria has, in critical moments, relied on presidential magnanimity to heal divisions and consolidate peace. Indeed, the authors of our constitution conceived of Section 175 in anticipation that the bare dictates of the law may sometimes prove insufficient in tackling complex legal issues that are better handled politically via Presidential discretion.
“It is our belief that an act of clemency by the President would resonate deeply across the country as a symbol of inclusiveness, fairness, and leadership that prioritises healing over division. It would send a clear message that dialogue is still possible, even in difficult circumstances”, he added.
He added that Nigeria has previously relied on presidential clemency to ease national divisions, and a similar gesture now would signal inclusiveness and a commitment to healing.
The caucus appealed to residents of the Southeast to remain calm and law-abiding as efforts continue to secure a peaceful and lasting resolution.
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