A prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has criticized southeast governors for their inaction regarding the ongoing prosecution trials of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.
In a statement, Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro expressed concerns over Kanu’s trial, citing the governors’ lack of political will to confront President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, according to Politics Nigeria.
Isiguzoro praised Justice Binta Nyako’s recusal from Kanu’s case, emphasizing the importance of fair trial and judicial integrity.
The organization referenced a July 2024 meeting attended by notable figures, including Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and HRM Igwe Alfred Achebe, where southeast governors pledged to engage President Tinubu on Kanu’s release.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo urged the governors to fulfill this commitment, warning that inaction may perpetuate suspicions of political expediency.
Part of the statement read:
”Our observations have been sharpened by the unexpected yet significant decision by Justice Binta Nyako to recuse herself from presiding over Kanu’s case. This move, while commendable, underscores a deeper malaise within the political engagement concerning the fate of our people.
”Nigerians, and particularly the Ndigbo, have been vigilant in monitoring the intricate legal proceedings involving Mazi Kanu, especially in light of the amended terrorism charges brought forth by the prosecution.
”It is crucial to recognize that the right to a fair trial and the confidence of the accused in judicial integrity remain paramount. Kanu’s expression of frustration and his loss of confidence in the judicial process reflects a legitimate concern that can seldom be ignored.
”We applaud Justice Binta Nyako for her decision to step aside, demonstrating an admirable commitment to judicial propriety amidst a highly charged atmosphere.
Regrettably, our scrutiny extends beyond the courtroom to the political landscape in which decisive actions could have been taken to assist Kanu and other Igbo political prisoners. Ohanaeze Ndigbo holds the Southeast Governors accountable for their apparent lack of political will to confront President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding the urgent need for political solutions for Nnamdi Kanu’s release.
”The silence from these leaders following anticipated discussions compromises the dignity of our collective aspirations and casts a shadow over their commitment to their constituents.”
“The lack of proactive engagement raises suspicions among the populace, leading to justified claims that Nnamdi Kanu may have been sacrificed on the altar of political expediency for the upcoming electoral cycle in 2027.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo implores the Southeast Governors to recapture the righteous resolve they expressed in July and embark on the promised journey to meet with President Tinubu.
“Fulfilling this commitment is not merely an act of political diplomacy but a moral imperative that reflects the integrity and solidarity expected of our leaders.
“The credibility of our political class hinges upon their ability to transform their words into action, particularly in matters as sensitive as this,” the statement added.
