Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called on President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as part of efforts to restore peace in the South-East.
Kalu made the appeal on Wednesday following the inaugural meeting of the House Committee on the South-East Development Commission at the National Assembly in Abuja.
In a statement on Thursday, Kalu’s Special Assistant on Print Affairs, Udora Orizu, quoted the Deputy Speaker as commending President Tinubu for his commitment to the South-East, particularly his decision to sign the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) Bill into law—a milestone that had eluded previous administrations.
He emphasized that a political resolution, rather than a legal approach, would be the most effective means of addressing Kanu’s case. According to Kalu, Kanu’s release would significantly contribute to reducing insecurity in the region.
“We are appealing to the President. He is the Commander-in-Chief, and we cannot compel him. All we are asking is for him to adopt a political approach rather than a legal one,” Kalu stated.
The Deputy Speaker argued that releasing Kanu would strip criminal elements of their justification for violence.
“Those claiming to fight because of Nnamdi Kanu will have no reason to continue disrupting the peace. Security agencies can then focus on apprehending those who persist in causing harm,” he added.
Impact of Insecurity on Development
Kalu further highlighted how insecurity has hindered development in the South-East, expressing confidence that President Tinubu’s intervention could transform the region.
“You cannot achieve development in the midst of insecurity. That is why we initiated the Peace in South-East Project, which is backed by parliament. However, we have come to realize that releasing Kanu would significantly reduce unrest,” he said.
The Deputy Speaker also praised Tinubu’s commitment to the region’s development, noting that his swift assent to the SEDC Bill demonstrated his dedication to national unity and inclusivity.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made it clear that the South-East is an integral part of Nigeria. Previous administrations failed to pass the bill, but he signed it into law. We appreciate his commitment,” Kalu remarked.
He further underscored the South-East’s vast potential in agriculture, technology, sports, and entertainment, stressing the need for federal support to harness these opportunities.
“We need something akin to Silicon Valley in the East—let’s call it Eastern Valley—a hub where young, innovative minds can collaborate. With the right policies, development will thrive,” he added.
