NOT less than 50 members of the House of Representatives from different parts of the country and across political parties, under the aegis of Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the Southeast, have written to President Bola Tinubu to invoke Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015 for the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, from detention.
In a three-page letter, dated June 19, 2024, and addressed to the President, the lawmakers also appealed to Tinubu to commence a presidential peace initiative to address all issues and challenges bedeviling the Southeast.
The lawmakers appealled to the President to direct the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) to invoke his powers of nolle prosequi under the provisions of Section 174(1) of the 1999 Constitution and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015, to effect Kanu’s release from detention and discontinue his trial.
They believe such action is long overdue and necessary for conversations around restoration of peace, inclusivity and addressing the issues that led to the agitation, recalling that the President extended this gesture, through the office of the AGF, in the case of Omoyele Sowore, who was charged with treasonable felony and Sunday Igboho.
“Facilitating the release of Kanu would demonstrate a commitment to upholding the principles of justice and fairness, which are the bedrock of our democracy.
“Your Excellency, the benefits of such a bold and compassionate act are manifold. It would pave the way for peace initiatives, economic revitalisation and a renewed sense of belonging among the citizens of the Southeast.
“It would also enhance your administration’s legacy as one that prioritises national unity, peace and progress.
“We are hopeful that you will consider this request with the gravity it deserves and take the necessary steps to bring about a new era of peace and inclusivity in Nigeria.
“Thank you, Your Excellency, for your attention to this important matter and we look forward to a positive response,” the lawmakers stated.
