President Tinubu urged to oblige to A Political Solution for the Release of Nnamdi Kanu as opined by the APGA National Chairman – Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa in a live TV program – 22nd October 2024 written by Nduka Anyanwu
Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, the National Chairman of the All-Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), has made a passionate plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Ezeokenwa believes this would be a significant step towards restoring lasting peace in the Southeast region, which has been plagued by security challenges and economic hardship due to Kanu’s continued detention.
The sit-at-home orders, initiated by non-state actors demanding Kanu’s release, have had a devastating impact on the region’s economy, particularly small and micro enterprises. These businesses, which account for 99.8% of Nigeria’s business landscape, have been severely affected, with many struggling to survive. The disruptions have also extended to the education sector and essential public services, causing students to miss exams and businesses to face threats for operating during the sit-at-home orders.
Ezeokenwa emphasized the alarming rise in violent crimes, including kidnapping, killings, arson, and destruction of police stations and government buildings. He appealed to President Tinubu to consider a political solution to the crisis, urging him to publicly outline any conditions required for Kanu’s release. Notably, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, has offered to act as a guarantor for Kanu should the Federal Government release him.
The APGA Chairman’s appeal reflects a growing consensus that addressing Kanu’s incarceration is crucial to stabilizing the Southeast and restoring economic vitality to the region. He called on governors, lawmakers, and ministers from the region to unite and intensify their efforts towards resolving the crisis.
In summary, the key take away are:
- Release of Nnamdi Kanu: APGA National Chairman, Ezeokenwa, is urging President Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu to restore peace in the Southeast region. This move is expected to address the rising insecurity and economic challenges in the region.
- Economic Impact: The sit-at-home orders have severely affected small and micro enterprises, which account for 99.8% of Nigeria’s business landscape. This has led to significant economic losses and hardship for the people in the region.
- Security Challenges: There’s been a rise in violent crimes, including
kidnapping, killings, arson, and destruction of police stations and
government buildings. This has created a sense of fear and insecurity among residents. - Political Solution: Ezeokenwa is appealing to President Tinubu to consider a political solution and publicly outline conditions for Kanu’s release. This could help to address the underlying issues driving the insecurity.
- Guarantor Offer: Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, has offered to act as guarantor for Kanu’s release, demonstrating a willingness to find a peaceful resolution.
These key takeaways highlight the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis in the Southeast region.
