The Archbishop of the Methodist Archdiocese of Olivier, Imo State, Most Revered Livinus Biereonwu Onuagha has condemned the life sentence slammed on Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Onuagha also described the decision of the court on the terrorism charges against the IPOB as a grave misjudgment that has failed the test of fairness and justice in Nigeria.
He also added that the court’s decision, delivered by Justice James Omotosho, has deepened widespread concerns over the nation’s governance system.
Also querying the credibility of Nigeria’s judicial system, Onuagha said Justice Omotosho’s judgment has only amplified fears that Nigeria is not a just nation.
Calling for sincere conversations around the arrest, detention and sentencing og the IPOB leader, the Archbishop urged political leaders in the Southeast region to stand up to the occasion and engage with their people.
“Igbo politicians should recognise the realities on the ground and respond to the grievances of the region.
Further condemning the sentencing, Onuagha, said that terrorists who have killed, maimed and rapped women and children without provocation have walked free and even received a pat on the wrist for their evil deeds.
According to him, on the other hand, Kanu whom he described as a non-violent agitator has received the harshest possible sentence for speaking up for his people.
“When people who have taken up arms are being reintegrated into society, while someone who has not been linked to violence is given life imprisonment, many citizens begin to question the fairness of the system,” the Archbishop said.
In addition, the cleric urged the Nigerian government to make efforts to prioritise justice, dialogue, and the equitable treatment of all citizens.
He also stated that the only solution to lasting peace is when all citizens feel protected and treated fairly under the nation’s law.
