Apex lgbo Socio-cultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said that the delay by South-East to visit the incarnated leader of indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu was a clear indication that he has sacrificed for the 2027 general election.
Ohanaeze stated that it extended profound concern and heartfelt reflections regarding the recent developments surrounding the ongoing prosecution trials of Kanu.
The lgbo body added that its observations have been sharpened by the unexpected yet significant decision by the trial judge, Justice Binta Nyako to recuse herself from presiding over Kanu’s case.
This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Ohanaeze’s factional Secretary-general, Okechukwu lsiguzoro and made available to The Trumpet.
According to lsiguzoro, the highly commendable move underscores a deeper malaise within the political engagement concerning the fate of South-East people.
The statement reads “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 reflect 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.
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“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 recent history of political engagements, particularly the closed-door meeting on July 2, 2024, attended by notable figures like Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and HRM Igwe Alfred Achebe, was marked by a public pledge from the Southeast Governors to engage President Tinubu regarding Kanu’s situation.
It is disheartening to observe that, almost three months later, this commitment has languished unrealized.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.
“As we approach the 2024 Igbo Day celebrations on September 29, 2024, we call upon the global Igbo community to unite in a collective prayer for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
Moreover, we urge all to include our Southeast Governors in petitions for divine enlightenment; may they act decisively to halt any perceptions of betrayal of the collective will of the Ndigbo people.
In conclusion, we stand firm in our conviction that the plight of Nnamdi Kanu is not a solitary journey but one that resonates with the broader Socio-Political dynamics affecting our people.It is imperative that we foster a genuine, actionable dialogue that prioritizes justice, equity, and human rights for all.
