Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has called on President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Kalu made this appeal during the inaugural meeting of the House Committee on the South-East Development Commission, emphasizing that Kanu’s release could help restore peace in the South-East region.
Kalu praised Tinubu for his support in signing the South-East Development Commission Bill into law, which had stalled under previous administrations. He argued that a political approach to Kanu’s case, rather than a legal one, would be more effective in addressing the region’s insecurity.
“We cannot coerce him. All we are saying is: ‘Use a political approach, not a legal one,’” Kalu stated, asserting that freeing Kanu would eliminate the justification for violent activities by criminal elements claiming to fight for him.
He highlighted that ongoing insecurity hampers development in the region and expressed optimism that Tinubu’s intervention could lead to significant improvements. Kalu also envisioned creating an “Eastern Valley” to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the South-East, akin to Silicon Valley.
Kalu’s remarks come amidst ongoing discussions regarding the region’s challenges and the need for federal government support to unlock its potential in various sectors, including agriculture, technology, and entertainment.
