In order for peace to reign in the South East geopolitical zone of Nigeria and to identify real trouble makers, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to grant political pardon to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In an interview during the celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary in Awka, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, National Vice President of Ohanaeze, stressed that Kanu’s release would help restore peace, allow the government to identify those perpetuating violence, and effectively end the troubling sit-at-home practice in the zone.
“Our primary demand this Independence Day is for the President to seize this moment of celebration to grant political pardon to our son, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, currently held in DSS detention,” Okeke-Ogene asserted.
According to him, Ohanaeze believes in Nigeria’s democracy and that Kanu’s release would foster peace and unity among all Nigerians residing in Igbo land.
He also urged South East governors to strengthen the security framework and enhance the welfare of the people in the zone.
The Ohanaeze chieftain called on President Tinubu to take urgent action that would bring relief to millions of Nigerians facing insecurity, hunger, and other socio-economic challenges, even as he lamented that the country is still developing at a slow pace.