Obi Aguocha seeks former President Buhari's support to release Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB leader, apologizing for Kanu's past actions and urging a political solution for national unity.
Obi Aguocha, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ikwuano, Umuahia North and South federal constituency, has appealed to former President Muhammadu Buhari for assistance in securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). During a visit to Buhari's residence in Daura, Katsina, Aguocha expressed regret for Kanu's past actions and called for a political solution to the issue to promote national unity.
Aguocha apologized on behalf of Kanu, stating, "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." He emphasized that a political resolution could address the concerns of all involved parties.
On June 23, a group of approximately 50 House of Representatives members, calling themselves Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the South-East, urged President Bola Tinubu to release Kanu. They requested that Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi use Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution to facilitate Kanu's release.
Buhari praised Aguocha for his dedication to his constituents and indicated that he would not oppose a political solution for Kanu's release. Earlier this year, Buhari had mentioned that the government's decision to bring Kanu back to Nigeria for trial was a significant step, as they had other options.
Kanu was extradited to Nigeria in 2021 after fleeing the country. He faces charges including terrorism, treasonable felony, and incitement. Kanu has indicated a willingness to negotiate with the federal government to resolve the situation.