The South-East Caucus in the House of Representatives has called on President Bola Tinubu to grant a state pardon to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, as a crucial step toward national healing and stability.
In a joint statement issued on Monday and signed by all lawmakers from the region, the caucus said the appeal was rooted in growing concerns about the humanitarian, economic and security implications of Kanu’s continued detention.
While affirming full respect for the judiciary and the legal processes that led to Kanu’s conviction and life sentence, the lawmakers noted that the issue had evolved beyond the courtroom and now posed broader national challenges.
They urged President Tinubu to exercise his constitutional powers under Section 175 to grant clemency, describing the move as a strategic investment in lasting peace and unity.
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According to the caucus, Kanu’s prolonged detention has intensified tension and agitation across the region, despite persistent appeals for calm. They warned that the current climate of fear, disrupted economic activity and social instability in the South-East required urgent de-escalation that only a political solution could provide.
They emphasised that communities have suffered deeply due to persistent security operations, civil resistance, closed markets, interrupted schooling and shrinking commercial life conditions they believe could ease significantly if the president intervenes compassionately.
The lawmakers argued that a presidential pardon would send a powerful signal of inclusiveness and statesmanship, demonstrating that dialogue remains possible even in complex national disputes. It would also create room for more constructive engagement between the Federal Government, elected leaders and regional stakeholders.
The caucus reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government in promoting unity and stability nationwide, urging citizens of the South-East to remain peaceful and law-abiding as efforts continue toward a political resolution.
