The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has asked President Bola Tinubu to grant the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, a political pardon as part of Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary.
This appeal was made by Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, the National Vice President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, in Awka, Anambra State capital on Tuesday while addressing journalists in the state as Nigerians across the country mark Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary.
He stressed that releasing Kanu could pave the way for peace, help identify those responsible for violence, and ultimately end the troubling sit-at-home orders in the Southeast.
Okeke-Ogene said, “Our primary request this Independence Day is for the President to embrace the spirit of celebration by granting a political pardon to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, currently held in DSS detention.”
“Ohanaeze believes in the strength of Nigeria’s democracy, and we are convinced that Kanu’s release would foster peace and unity among all Nigerians in Igbo land,” he said.
Okeke-Ogene also asked President Tinubu to take swift action that would bring hope and relief to millions of Nigerians facing insecurity, hunger, and various socio-economic challenges, stressing the need for the country to accelerate its development.
He also called on South-East governors to maintain the region’s security framework and prioritise the welfare of its people.