The Council of South East Traditional Rulers has called on the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), asserting that his freedom would significantly reduce tensions in the South East region of Nigeria.
The appeal was made by the Chairman of the Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, during his appearance at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja on Sunday. Igwe Asadu emphasized that the council supports the collective call for Kanu’s release, echoed by South East governors, lawmakers, and the broader community.
“He is our son. He has been detained for a long time, despite the ups and downs with the judiciary,” Asadu stated. “Of course, we back the Governors Forum and other stakeholders’ call for his release to reduce tension.”
Asadu highlighted the importance of ensuring that the government’s actions are measured and that there is a clear understanding that Kanu’s release will not lead to further unrest. “We believe the government will do its due diligence to guarantee that his release will be managed appropriately,” he added. “There should be some form of measures or a deal to be made.”
The traditional ruler expressed confidence that Kanu’s release would bring calmness and joy to the people of the South East. “If the president looks into this and grants him a pardon, we will be excited. His absence affects our area significantly as many of his followers are deeply committed to his cause,” Asadu noted.
He further shared the emotional toll Kanu’s detention has taken on his supporters and family. “Who would want to have their son locked up for a long time? Of course, we are praying every day. All the traditional rulers are praying for Nnamdi Kanu’s release. We feel his pain and the pain of his family,” Asadu said.
Concluding his remarks, Igwe Asadu expressed hope that President Bola Tinubu would consider the appeal favorably. “It would be a gift if the President grants this request. We would come back to thank him in a big way,” he concluded.
