Mohammed Jajere, one of the 50 members of the House of Representatives under the group ‘Concerned Federal Lawmakers,’ explained that their letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu seeking the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is aimed to bring lasting peace to the South East and the country at large.
Speaking to our reporter over the phone on Sunday, he confirmed his support and agreement with the letter’s content.
He said, “There were suggestions for negotiation with the federal government to achieve lasting peace. That’s why we called on President Tinubu to allow an out-of-court settlement, so the matter can be resolved amicably. I was informed about it over the phone and agreed to proceed. We are seeking peace.”
The lawmakers, in a three-page letter dated June 19, 2024, urged President Tinubu to invoke Section 174 of the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.
They requested the President to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, to use his powers under these provisions to release Kanu.
The lawmakers highlighted that President Tinubu had previously extended similar gestures through the Attorney General’s office to Omoyele Sowore and Sunday Igboho when they faced treasonable felony charges.
The letter reads, “We beseech you to direct the Attorney-General to invoke his powers of nolle prosequi and release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, discontinuing his trial.
“We believe this action is overdue and would open the door for peace, reform, and inclusivity, addressing the issues that led to the agitations, especially during these constitutional reforms. This act can promote national unity, addressing political, security and economic concerns in the region, and encouraging Southeast stakeholders to engage in national discussions.
“Releasing Kanu would help dismantle violence and restiveness in the region, allowing focus on economic growth and development. This comes at a time of national challenges, including unemployment, insecurity, hunger, and poverty, and would de-escalate tensions.”
The lawmakers also appealed for a peace initiative to address challenges in the Southeast and other parts of Nigeria.
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