Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has revealed that efforts are ongoing to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from detention.
In a recent address during the “South East Political Roundtable” aired on FLO FM in Umuahia, Kalu provided a glimmer of hope regarding the release of Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Following a Supreme Court order for a retrial, Kanu’s detention has sparked widespread agitation and led to sit-at-home protests in the Southeast region.
Kalu, however, called for an end to the sit-at-home protests, citing its adverse impact on southeast development and investor confidence.
He stressed the necessity of peace and non-violent approaches to address the region’s security challenges and various grievances.
“We’re working behind the scenes on a detailed strategy for Kanu’s release. Violence cannot coerce the government. Let’s demonstrate wisdom through peace,” Kalu emphasized.
Expressing concern over the economic repercussions of the sit-at-home protests, Kalu highlighted the region’s potential for development.
He said: “Our brothers who have money want to bring it back home. Some of them want to do it, but you are scaring them away. How long are we going to sell fear to our people?
“This is a new year. This is a new era. This is a new dawn, and I urge you to come and join hands with us. We will make you the leaders of this project. Don’t lead those carrying guns; let’s give you responsibility; let’s give you a task.
“And I call on all of you who are in support of the sit-at-home on Monday, it is time to stop. It is time to stop the sit-at-home on Mondays.
“If your agitation is about the release of Nnamdi Kanu, we love our Igbo land, and we love our brother, and he is my brother. That he is locked up does not make him less of my brother, and that you are agitating does not make you less of my brother.
“But I am saying that there is a better way to get it done. There are many ways to kill a rat. Let us look for other ways that we can kill this rat without destroying our home.
“Let us come together and unite, and I can assure you that once we unite, there is nothing we ask this government that we cannot get, including the one you are asking for, our brother; it is also achievable.”
Kalu commended the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P) and called for support from both government and community levels, emphasizing its non-political nature and dedication to community service.
He reiterated the importance of unity and collaboration among stakeholders, including the involvement of state governors and the backing of Igbo billionaires for regional development.
In response to concerns about potential conflicts between PISE-P and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Kalu clarified the collaborative nature of the project, citing Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s support for the initiative as a testament to its unifying objective.
“The Peace in Southeast project is not political; it’s about community service and peace,” Kalu affirmed.
