Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has expressed hope that Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will soon be freed from custody.
Kanu has been detained by Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021 after being arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria.
He is currently facing charges of treason for leading IPOB, a group that advocates for the independence of the Southeast region of Nigeria.
Kalu shared this update during a meeting in Abuja with lawmakers from Southeast Nigeria, where they discussed challenges facing the region. He assured them that efforts are ongoing at the highest levels to secure Kanu’s release.
“I am working hard to make sure Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is released. It will happen soon. Please pray for us,” Kalu said.
Kalu also called on Southeast leaders and residents to work together to bring peace and development to the region. He urged an end to the frequent sit-at-home protests, which he said harm the region’s economy and unity.
He advocated for the creation of a South East Development Commission (SEDC) to address the region’s needs and stressed the importance of leaders supporting one another.
“The power of unity is greater than money. We need to come together as one. Let’s stop harming ourselves with these protests and build a better future for our region,” he said.
The push for Kanu’s release has gained attention, with government officials like Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu also expressing optimism. She recently noted that President Bola Tinubu understands the significance of releasing Kanu to help restore peace in the Southeast.
Kalu urged all Southeast residents to remain hopeful and work toward solutions that will benefit the region.
