The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has made a heartfelt appeal to President Bola Tinubu to grant political pardon to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as Nigeria marks its 64th Independence anniversary.
In an interview held in Awka, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, the National Vice President of Ohanaeze, argued that Kanu’s release would be instrumental in restoring peace and enabling the government to identify those responsible for violence in the region. He emphasized that this action could effectively put an end to the troubling sit-at-home practices prevalent in the South East geopolitical zone.
“Our primary demand this Independence Day is for the President to seize this moment of celebration to grant political pardon to our son, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, currently held in DSS detention,” Okeke-Ogene stated.
He further expressed that Ohanaeze believes in the principles of democracy and asserted that Kanu’s release would foster peace and unity among all Nigerians residing in Igbo land. Additionally, he urged South East governors to enhance the security framework and improve the welfare of the people in the region.
Highlighting the urgent need for action, Okeke-Ogene called on President Tinubu to implement measures that would bring relief to millions of Nigerians grappling with insecurity, hunger, and other socio-economic challenges. He lamented the slow pace of development in the country, underscoring the necessity for swift and effective governance.