The South-East caucus of the House of Representatives has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consider pardoning Nnamdi Kanu, the convicted leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement issued on Monday after a caucus meeting, the lawmakers said that releasing Kanu through presidential clemency would create room for meaningful dialogue between the Federal Government, elected officials, and community stakeholders, ultimately fostering long-term peace.
They noted that Nigeria has, at critical junctures, turned to presidential benevolence to mend divisions and strengthen national unity. Citing Section 175 of the Constitution, they argued that the framers of the law envisioned moments when legal processes alone might be insufficient and political discretion would be necessary.
According to the caucus, a pardon for Kanu would send a powerful message of inclusiveness, fairness, and a leadership style that prioritises healing over discord. They emphasised that such an action would help open the door to broader engagement on a sustainable and peaceful path forward.
The lawmakers expressed concern that Kanu’s continued detention has exacerbated tension and agitation in the South-East. Despite repeated appeals for calm, they said the atmosphere in the region remains strained. A presidential act of mercy, they added, could help ease tensions, restore normalcy, and reduce recurring cycles of security operations and civil unrest.
They also highlighted the emotional, social, and economic strain caused by the situation, including closed markets, disrupted education, and reduced commercial activity. While acknowledging the judiciary’s role in Kanu’s conviction, they stressed that the matter has evolved into a national concern with significant humanitarian and security implications.
After extensive deliberations, the caucus formally urged the President to exercise his constitutional powers under Section 175 to grant Kanu a pardon.
Conviction for Terrorism
On 20 November 2025, the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment on terrorism charges. Justice James Omotosho ruled that prosecutors had proven all seven counts beyond reasonable doubt, stating that Kanu had knowingly pursued actions that endangered the lives of people in the South-East.
The judge held that Kanu’s repeated threats, calls for violence, and the declaration of sit-at-home orders amounted to acts of terrorism. Kanu’s legal team has vowed to challenge the verdict at the Court of Appeal.
