FREEDOM At LAST? Jubilation Hits Igboland 12 Days After Biafra Declaration; SEE What Kalu Revealed About Nnamdi Kanu
House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has suggested that the leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, may soon gain his freedom. Kalu revealed that extensive discussions are currently underway with key authorities aimed at securing Kanu’ s release from detention. Kanu has been held in the custody of the Department of State Services since June 2021, facing charges related to treason.
During a recent meeting in Abuja with the South East Legislators Forum, which included lawmakers from the five Southeast states, Kalu reiterated the ongoing efforts to facilitate Kanu’ s release. The gathering was led by Kingsley Ikoro, the Majority Leader of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly. Kalu expressed confidence that the behind- the- scenes negotiations would yield results in the near future, emphasizing his commitment to advocating for Kanu’ s liberation.
Kalu conveyed a strong sense of purpose, stating that he is actively working towards the goal of securing Kanu’ s freedom and urged those present to keep him in their thoughts and prayers. His remarks underscored a broader call for unity among political leaders in the Southeast region, stressing the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the area.
The deputy speaker commended the lawmakers for their interest in the ongoing constitutional amendment process and encouraged them to lend their full support. He highlighted the need for the South East Development Commission (SEDC) to achieve its objectives, asserting that the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to the well- being of the Igbo people and Nigerians as a whole.
Kalu stressed the significance of networking and unity, asserting that collective strength surpasses financial resources in effecting change. He cautioned against the detrimental effects of division, urging the end of the sit- at- home orders that have caused harm within the community. The deputy speaker remarked on the importance of coming together to harness the power of unity for growth and development.
In his address, Kalu acknowledged the efforts of the lawmakers who had attended the meeting, recognizing their commitment to gaining exposure and enhancing their legislative capabilities. He emphasized that such exposure would enrich their contributions to legislative activities, enabling them to speak with authority and knowledge.
He expressed gratitude for the legislators’ involvement in the constitutional amendment discussions, highlighting that collaborative efforts would be essential for successful engagement with the issues at the federal level. Addressing the anticipated zonal public hearings on constitutional amendments, Kalu encouraged support from the lawmakers to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive process, with plans to commence discussions in the first half of the upcoming year.
The deputy speaker urged the South East Legislative Forum to establish a cohesive legislative agenda and to foster innovative ideas that could be utilized for the benefit of the region. He reassured the group that collaboration with the SEDC remains vital, despite some skepticism about the government’ s commitment to the project. Kalu encouraged support for President Tinubu’ s administration and the potential for building regional capacity through collaboration.
The delegation leader, Kingsley Ikoro, articulated their purpose in visiting Kalu, emphasizing solidarity and respect for his role as a political leader in the Southeast. He conveyed that the gathering consisted of legislators from Anambra, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Imo states, acknowledging Kalu as a unifying figure for the Igbo people in the current political landscape.
As discussions continue regarding Kanu’ s fate and the broader aspirations of the Southeast, the sentiments expressed during this meeting highlight a collective determination to foster unity, enhance development, and support legislative initiatives that could lead to significant improvements for the region.