UMUAHIA — Hon. Alex Ikwecheghi, member representing Aba North and Aba South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to authorize the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, describing it as a strategic move that could help quell the persistent insecurity in the South East.
Speaking during a fundraising event for the Abia State Security Trust Fund in Umuahia on Wednesday, Ikwecheghi stressed that Kanu’s continued detention has only fueled resentment in the region, and urged the President to listen to growing calls for his release.
“The release of Nnamdi Kanu will significantly reduce the insecurity plaguing the South East,” the lawmaker said. “Contrary to the views held by some quarters, Kanu is not a criminal. He is a voice of a people who feel marginalized.”
Ikwecheghi revealed that both the South East caucus in the National Assembly and other prominent groups have appealed to President Tinubu to take a reconciliatory step by freeing Kanu. He noted that the caucus, led by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe in the Senate and Hon. Idu Igariwey in the House of Representatives, has issued a formal communiqué urging the federal government to consider the move as a peace-building gesture.
“Kanu’s release will not only bring calm to the region, it could also endear the President to Ndigbo,” he added. “That goodwill may translate to political capital in the 2027 elections.”
The lawmaker also pointed out that even Northern political figures have joined the appeal for Kanu’s freedom, underscoring the broad-based support for a diplomatic resolution.
“It was the previous administration that arrested him. President Tinubu is not his enemy,” Ikwecheghi said. “Holding him any longer will only deepen the grievances of the Igbo people. We are appealing: release him. He’s our brother, he’s your son. Doing so will bring healing.”
In a related development, Ikwecheghi praised Abia State Governor Alex Otti for launching the Abia State Security Trust Fund, aimed at supporting security agencies in the state.
He described Governor Otti as “intentional and proactive,” commending his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and fostering an enabling environment for businesses.
“Governor Otti’s initiatives on security have been exemplary. Abia is relatively safe, and that’s thanks to a leadership that prioritizes peace and development,” he said.
As part of his support, the lawmaker announced a personal donation of N20 million to the Security Trust Fund, pledging continued backing for the state’s security efforts.
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