
The Member Representing Aba North And South Federal Constituency, Hon. Mascot Alex Ikwechegh has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate bold leadership and empathy by releasing Kanu, who he described as “a voice of his people, not a criminal. Ikwechegh make the bold appeal while speaking during a national forum.”
According to the lawmaker, Nnamdi Kanu’s continued detention is fueling deeper resentment, distrust, and insecurity in the region, and his freedom could mark a turning point in restoring hope and national cohesion.
“We have made it very emphatic—Nnamdi Kanu is only speaking the voice of his people. He has not committed any crime. He is not a criminal. He is expressing the pain of a people who feel deeply marginalized by the Nigerian system,” Hon. Ikwechegh stated.
The Aba legislator disclosed that several strategic meetings have been held with top security agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, and the House Security and Intelligence Committee, in a bid to resolve the lingering issue. He added that even lawmakers from Northern Nigeria have expressed support for Kanu’s release, underlining the national significance of the matter.
“We have met with the NSA, we have discussed with the Security and Intelligence Committee chaired by my colleague from Borno. Even some of our northern brothers are saying he should be released. This is beyond region—it is about peace and justice,” he said.
Ikwechegh also drew a clear distinction between the past administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, under whom Kanu was rearrested, and the current Tinubu-led administration, urging the President to chart a new course.
“General Buhari was the one who arrested Nnamdi Kanu. But President Tinubu has no personal problem with him. Holding him now will only continue to ferment the indignation and resentment the Igbo people feel. But releasing him will heal wounds,” he emphasized.
In a direct appeal to the President, Hon. Ikwechegh said Kanu’s release will not only calm rising tensions but could politically benefit the President as well.
“Release him for us. He is our brother. He is your son too, Mr. President. Doing this will show that Bola Ahmed Tinubu has done something meaningful for the Igbo people. It may even translate to political goodwill and votes. It will do Nigeria a lot of good,” he concluded.
The lawmaker’s bold statement has reignited national conversation around justice, equity, and reconciliation, as the country continues to grapple with challenges of unity and regional grievances.