Reps panel demands Nnamdi Kanu’s release, says it’ll restore peace in south-east

The house of representatives committee on South East Development Commission (SEDC) has demanded for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). 

Chris Nkwonta, chairman of the committee, made the request during the panel’s inaugural meeting on Wednesday at the national assembly.

“Given the region’s security concerns, the committee and other well-meaning Nigerians appeal to the president to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu as a step towards lasting peace and development in the region,” he said.

The committee chairman commended President Bola Tinubu for signing the bill to create the SEDC, saying it would “drive meaningful development” in the region.

CALLS FOR KANU’S RELEASE

The IPOB leader has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since he was extradited from Kenya in June 2021.

He is currently facing terrorism charges.

There have been growing calls for Kanu’s release, particularly from stakeholders in the south-east.

In June 2024, 50 members of the house of representatives asked Tinubu to order Kanu’s release.

In the same month, the minority caucus in the green chamber demanded Kanu’s release.

On July 2, governors under the umbrella of the South-East Governors’ Forum resolved to meet with Tinubu to seek the release of the separatist leader.