Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has expressed concerns regarding the recent developments surrounding the ongoing prosecution trials of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of the organization, in a statement, blamed the southeast governors for the trials of Kanu.
Part of the statement read:
”Our observations have been sharpened by the unexpected yet significant decision by Justice Binta Nyako to recuse herself from presiding over Kanu’s case. This move, while commendable, underscores a deeper malaise within the political engagement concerning the fate of our people.
”Nigerians, and particularly the Ndigbo, have been vigilant in monitoring the intricate legal proceedings involving Mazi Kanu, especially in light of the amended terrorism charges brought forth by the prosecution.
”It is crucial to recognize that the right to a fair trial and the confidence of the accused in judicial integrity remain paramount. Kanu’s expression of frustration and his loss of confidence in the judicial process reflects a legitimate concern that can seldom be ignored.
”We applaud Justice Binta Nyako for her decision to step aside, demonstrating an admirable commitment to judicial propriety amidst a highly charged atmosphere.
Regrettably, our scrutiny extends beyond the courtroom to the political landscape in which decisive actions could have been taken to assist Kanu and other Igbo political prisoners. Ohanaeze Ndigbo holds the Southeast Governors accountable for their apparent lack of political will to confront President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding the urgent need for political solutions for Nnamdi Kanu’s release.
”The silence from these leaders following anticipated discussions compromises the dignity of our collective aspirations and casts a shadow over their commitment to their constituents.”
The organization noted that the recent history of political engagements, particularly the closed-door meeting in July 2024, attended by notable figures like Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and HRM Igwe Alfred Achebe, was marked by a public pledge from the Southeast Governors to engage President Tinubu regarding Kanu’s situation.
The group noted that, almost three months later, this commitment has languished unrealized.
”The lack of proactive engagement raises suspicions among the populace, leading to justified claims that Nnamdi Kanu may have been sacrificed on the altar of political expediency for the upcoming electoral cycle in 2027.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo implores the Southeast Governors to recapture the righteous resolve they expressed in July and embark on the promised journey to meet with President Tinubu.
“Fulfilling this commitment is not merely an act of political diplomacy but a moral imperative that reflects the integrity and solidarity expected of our leaders.
“The credibility of our political class hinges upon their ability to transform their words into action, particularly in matters as sensitive as this,” the statement added.
