By Abbanobi -Eku Onyekachi, Abuja
A prominent lawyer, Amobi Nzelu, has written to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to intervene in the case of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Nzelu, the Principal Partner of Amobi Nzelu & Co, appealed to Tinubu to use his powers to release Kanu from detention and bring an end to his prolonged incarceration.
In his letter, Nzelu noted that Kanu’s case has been a subject of intense debate and discussion, with many calling for his release. He emphasized that Tinubu is now in a unique position to “rewrite the history” of Kanu’s incarceration by taking decisive action.
Nzelu suggested that Tinubu should direct his Attorney General to enter a nolle prosequi (a formal notice of abandonment of prosecution) in the matter. This, he believes, would pave the way for Kanu’s release and bring an end to his prolonged detention.
It’s worth noting that Kanu’s case has been ongoing for several years, with various appeals and court rulings. In April 2023, the Federal Government filed nine fresh grounds of appeal to oppose Kanu’s release.
Nzelu’s appeal to Tinubu is not the first time that prominent individuals have called for Kanu’s release. Late Mbazuluike Amaechi, a nonagenarian and respected Igbo leader, had previously led a delegation to meet with former President Muhammadu Buhari to request Kanu’s release. Unfortunately, that request was not granted.
As the debate around Kanu’s detention continues, Nzelu’s letter to Tinubu has added to the growing calls for his release. As Nzelu concluded his letter, he couldn’t help but recall the past. He noted that former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration had denied a similar request by the late Mbazuluike Amaechi, hiding behind the excuse that the matter was in court.
Nzelu urged Tinubu to adopt a political approach to resolving the crisis, releasing Kanu from detention. He emphasized that Kanu has been incarcerated for too long and that it’s time for his freedom. He therefore drew parallels with historical figures like Jasper Adaka Isaac Boro, who led a revolution and was later released by General Yakubu Gowon, and Pa Obafemi Awolowo, who was wrongly imprisoned. He lamented that the judiciary has often failed to deliver justice.
Nzelu expressed surprise that Tinubu’s administration has not prioritized releasing political prisoners, including Kanu. He stressed that dissenting voices and calls for self-determination are constitutionally guaranteed rights.
In solidarity with other Nigerians, Nzelu reiterated his call for Kanu’s immediate release, emphasizing that his prolonged detention is unjustified.
