Lawmaker Visits Buhari, Asks Him To Forgive Nnamdi Kanu’s ‘Missteps’

Obi Aguocha, a lawmaker representing Ikwuano, Umuahia north and south federal constituency, has sought the support of former President Muhammadu Buhari for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Aguocha, who visited Buhari on Saturday at his country home in Daura, Katsina, apologised on behalf of Kanu for his “missteps and ill gestures”.

He said a political resolution would address the concerns of the aggrieved parties and promote unity within the country.

“For the missteps, utterances, and ill gestures of the past, especially on the part of my constituent and brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, I am deeply sorry,” Aguocha said.

On June 23, about 50 members of the house of representatives asked President Bola Tinubu to order the release of Kanu.

The legislators, who identified themselves as Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the South-East, asked Tinubu to direct Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation, to invoke Section 174 of the 1999 constitution to release Kanu.

On his part, Buhari commended Aguocha for his dedication to serving his people.

The former president assured him that he would not be opposed to any political solution for Kanu’s release.

In January, Buhari said that bringing Kanu to Nigeria to face trial was a “favour”, as the federal government had the option to eliminate him.

Kanu was extradited to Nigeria in 2021 after he jumped bail and fled the country following his arraignment for alleged terrorism, treasonable felony, and incitement.

The IPOB leader has sought negotiation with the federal government.