Rep. Obi Aguocha, representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency of Abia, has sought the assistance of former President Muhammadu Buhari for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Aguocha explained that he visited Buhari in Katsina to seek support for political dialogue and constructive engagement. Aguocha believes such engagement could address the issues surrounding Kanu’s detention and trial, potentially leading to his release as part of a broader national reconciliation effort.
Expressing regret for Kanu’s past actions and statements, Aguocha said, “For the missteps, utterances, and ill gestures of the past, especially on the part of my constituent and brother, Nnamdi Kanu, I am deeply sorry.”
He argued that a political resolution would help address grievances from all sides and promote greater understanding and unity in Nigeria.
According to the statement, Buhari commended Aguocha’s humility and dedication to his people and assured him that he would not oppose a political solution for Kanu’s release.
Aguocha recently led a group of 50 House members from various political and ethnic backgrounds in signing a letter appealing to President Bola Tinubu to release Kanu. The letter urged Tinubu to direct the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fegbemi, SAN, to invoke section 174(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution to facilitate this.
The lawmaker explained that his meeting with Buhari was part of a broader initiative aimed at securing a speedy political resolution for Kanu’s detention and trial. This initiative seeks Kanu’s release in the spirit of fostering dialogue and non-contentious approaches to resolving national issues.
Aguocha noted that the initiative is based on the understanding that Kanu is willing to embrace a new dynamic and work towards building a new Nigeria.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in the custody of the State Security Service since his extradition from Kenya in June 2021, facing charges of alleged treason and terrorism.
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