Reps call for unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu

In order to reduce kidnapping, killings , and banditry in and around South Eastern states, the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee has called for Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to be released in order to bring about peace in the South East.

The call was made during a meeting on Thursday in Abuja by the committee’s chairman, Hon. Obinna Aguocha.

He contends that the government’s recognition of the rule of law, justice, and the fair inclusion of the South East region is the first step towards achieving total peace, reducing crime and criminality, investing in significant infrastructure development, ending the unproductive sit-at-home attitude, and improving economic growth and opportunities in the South East.

The importance of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s unconditional release from his wrongful detention in order to ensure long-term peace and security throughout the entire region, he said, cannot be overstated in order to realise Project Nigeria.

Speaking to the security agencies present at the meeting, he said that the shared borders between Abia State and other states give criminals room to move across the state’s borders, contributing to the insecurity issues there.

“The opportunity for inter-state collaboration presents itself and must be explored to foster regional participation. The challenges faced by one state rippled across it’s neighbours and therefore, our strategies for resolution must be all inclusive.

“By synergising our resources, expertise, and perspective, we can create a stronger front against insecurity and strengthen the bond that binds us”.

“As we navigate the complexities of security concerns, we must also be prepared to tackle the root causes of these issues at their core and work to ensure lasting solutions that would stand the test of time.

The House of Representatives had prior to embarking on its ongoing recess, pledged to wade into the matter following a similar demand through a motion, but yet to take any action to that effect,

Aguocha stated further that “the challenges we face are not mere statistics or headlines; they are real-life manifestations that affect the lives of our people, disrupt the functioning of our institutions and communities, thus impeding the growth of our region”.

According to the lawmaker, instances of criminal activities, banditry, kidnapping, assassinations, communal and religious clashes, and threats to life have shaken the very foundation of our societies.

“As leaders and stakeholders, it is incumbent upon us to come together, transcending our differences, to find sustainable solutions that will quell these threats and pave the way for a brighter future.