… Demands Unconditional Release Of Nnamdi Kanu
CHUKWUEBUKA OHIZU
Coalition of Civil Society Organizations on Wednesday 15th January 2025, advised that the reactive and kinetic approach/conducts of security agents in the South-East has further exacerbated the crisis in the region, as the approach instead of solving the problem is now suspiciously aimed at suppressing and exploiting people.
Addressing a press conference on security and governance in the South-East with the theme: “55 Years After The Nigerian Civil War”, the CSOs said that in the face of escalating tensions, dialogue must replace violence, and understanding must triumph over conflict.
The coalition said that the legacy of the Biafra War looms large over South-East Nigeria, shaping its identity and fueling calls for self-determination and autonomy.
“The scars of the conflict, which claimed the lives of thousands and led to widespread suffering, continue to haunt the region to this day. The memory of the war serves as a reminder of the need to address the root causes of the current crisis and work towards a future of peace, reconciliation, and unity.”
The Coalition said that suppressing discontent Igbo voices, especially from the South-East will not address the Igbo problem in Nigeria, as it is the right of citizens to protest, when they feel they are not getting justice and the right to self-determination is a fundamental human right.
The CSOs said that the extortion of motorists and young people by the personnel of the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Police Force and every other security agency on the roads in the southeast is brazen and unprecedented.
The CSOs said that rather than address the issue of marginalization, which the people have been crying against, the Federal Government is seen to be responding with intimidation and more marginalization.
They stress that In Nigeria today, the South-East has the least number of states, local government areas, representatives, political appointments and federal government presence.
The CSOs said that Nnamdi Kanu’s continued incarceration and no attempt by the Federal Government of Nigeria to embrace other diplomatic approaches rather than use of force to address the issue, in a country where people from other regions have engaged in crimes against the state but were engaged in dialogue, is a testament to the marginalization of the people of South-East.
“Rather than engage in meaningful dialogue with the agitators for Biafra and stakeholders from the southeast, Nigerian has chosen the use of force. Historical patterns show that the use of force has failed to resolve underlying grievances.
“Open dialogue will foster understanding and create an opportunity for lasting solutions to the challenges faced in the region. It is essential that the government acknowledge the voices of the people of the southeast and address their concerns in a constructive manner.
“Amidst the conflict, the people of southeast Nigeria are bearing the brunt of the crisis, facing threats to their safety, livelihoods, and basic human rights and from our observation, the Federal government of Nigeria is nonchalant about the plight of citizens in the southeast.
“Reports of human rights violations, extra judicial killings, and arbitrary arrests have raised alarm bells both within the country and on the international stage. The need to protect the civilian population and uphold their fundamental rights is paramount in any efforts to restore peace and stability to the region.”
DAILY NEWS NIGERIA reports that the press conference speech signed by Onyinyechi Joy Nwosu, Executive Director, Vivacious Development Initiative; Onwuka GloryExecutive Director, Onyedinma Foundation; Chuka Peter Okoye, Executive Director, Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS); Mrs Eunice Egbuna, Executive Director, Initiative For Grassroots Intervention and Development in Education (IGIDE);Casius Ukwugbe, Executive Director, Society for Human Rights Advocacy and Development,(SOHAD) and read by Obinna Nwagbara, Executive Director, Youth and Students Advocates for Development Initiative.
The coalition said that the continues detention of Kanu only serves to deepen the wounds of division and mistrust in a society, because to overlook his detention and unending trial is to turn a blind eye to the fundamental principles of justice and fairness that should guide the actions of those in leadership.
“Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release is not just a mere request but a necessity for the restoration of peace and stability in southeast Nigeria. To move forward as a country, we must embrace open and honest conversations, where all voices are heard and respected.
We urge all stakeholders to recognize the urgency of this matter and work towards a resolution that upholds the principles of democracy – truth and reconciliation.
“As we raise our voices in unison for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, let us remember our demands are not just for one man but for the collective well-being of Igbos in the southeast. His release signifies a step towards healing and reconciliation, a step towards a future where peace and prosperity can thrive. Together, we are advocating for justice, for freedom, and for a brighter tomorrow in southeast Nigeria.”
The coalition further demanded the Federal Government, State Governments and the non-state actors should prioritize the security and welfare of the people in the southeast.
Further demands include unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and creation of room for dialogue by the Federal Government with the agitators for Biafra and the stakeholders in the southeast.
The coalition demanded that the Nigeria Police Force should have security posts and dismantle all road blocks on southeast roads, as law enforcement agencies are urged to stop intimidating and extorting law-abiding citizens on the roads in the southeast.
“The federal government should ensure that the recently established South-East Development Commission delivers on its mandate, while state governors and local government chairmen in the southeast should be intentional about the development of the southeast.”
The coalition finally called on South-East governors should declare May 30 a Public Holiday in the South-East.
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