The South East Youth Stakeholders Forum, a coalition of youth representatives from various organizations across the South East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing incarceration of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
At an emergency meeting held on Saturday, the group expressed deep concern over the continuing challenges facing the region and urged the President to direct the Attorney General of the Federation to discontinue the prosecution of Kanu. The group emphasized that such a move would pave the way for his release and contribute to long-term peace and stability in the South East.
In a statement issued after the meeting, the Forum described President Tinubu as a “detribalised Nigerian” and appealed to him to take action in the interest of national unity. “We believe that the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is a critical step in resolving the persistent security challenges that have plagued the South East,” the statement read. “His freedom would foster genuine reconciliation, reduce regional tensions, and create an environment conducive for constructive dialogue.”
The statement was signed by representatives from the five states of the South East, led by Mazi Ezenwa Onyirimba, the Chairman representing Enugu State. The Forum underscored the importance of Kanu’s release in enabling meaningful engagement with disaffected youth in the region, some of whom have resorted to violent opposition against the state.
The Forum’s call for Kanu’s release highlights the ongoing need for inclusive dialogue and resolution to address the root causes of unrest in the South East, a region that has witnessed significant security challenges in recent years.
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