Former presidential spokesman for the Southeast, Denge Josef Onoh, has called on President Bola Tinubu to pursue a political resolution in the case of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, as the separatist leader appears in court on Friday.
Onoh’s appeal comes amid ongoing legal proceedings, which IPOB maintains are marred by procedural defects and violations of constitutional safeguards. In a statement, Onoh said, “This is not only a moral imperative, but one squarely within the constitutional powers of the Attorney General of the Federation, who holds the authority to invoke Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution for nolle prosequi or other discretionary remedies in the interest of justice and national peace.”
IPOB’s spokesman, Emma Powerful, had earlier responded to Onoh’s engagement by highlighting alleged irregularities in Kanu’s detention, insisting that the group is advocating for the rule of law rather than obstructing justice. Onoh described IPOB’s position as a demonstration of readiness to engage constructively. “IPOB’s tone signals that the door to constructive conversation is wide open—provided it is met with sincerity from leaders such as President Tinubu,” he said.
Onoh pointed to what he described as legal flaws in the case, including Kanu’s prior discharge and acquittal, the use of repealed legislation, and the employment of civil ex parte orders to underpin criminal liability. He further noted that the absence of cross-border approvals for Kanu’s rendition raised constitutional concerns.
“Furthermore, the prosecution’s reliance on the repealed Terrorism Prevention (Amended) Act 2013, superseded by subsequent legislation, renders the case constitutionally untenable,” Onoh said. He added that the current circumstances were comparable to recent international precedents, citing the appearance of former Syrian militant leader Ahmed al-Sharaa before the United Nations General Assembly as an example of how diplomacy can override past conflicts.
Onoh also invoked President Tinubu’s previous efforts in fostering regional inclusion, emphasising that his approach could facilitate reconciliation in the Southeast.
“You remain the first Nigerian politician in our democratic history to appoint a regional spokesman during your campaign, a bold gesture that signalled your intent to listen, engage, and address the marginalisation felt by our people,” Onoh stated.
He further urged immediate action to secure Kanu’s release, stressing both family and national considerations.
“I once again plead that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu be released to Iyom Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Senator John Azuta-Mbata. I humbly plead that he be released today; if not, the most important thing is that he spends Christmas with his family, visits the grave of his late father, and offers his prayers,” Onoh added.
The lawmaker’s appeal frames Kanu’s detention as both a legal and political issue, with potential implications for national reconciliation and the government’s engagement with southeastern stakeholders.
