Former Speaker Emeka Ihedioha has asked the Federal Government of Nigeria to detain the leader of the proscribed group, Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu.
Gatekeepers News earlier reported that Kanu has been discharged of all the 15 counts charges filed against him by the federal government.
The Attorney General of the Federation, Abubarkar Malami, has further clarified that that Kanu was only discharged but not acquitted.
In reaction to this development, Ihedioha, while aligning with the federal government in a statement he personally signed, suggested “a quick move by the federal government to continue his detention, apply for any of execution of the judgement of the court of Appeal and file an appeal at the supreme Court, this will enable his continued detention legal and would reasonably guarantee peace and security in the south east towards the 2023 elections.”
He added that federal government’s position on the issues predating the IPOB leader’s rendition on the basis of which Kanu jumped bail” which remained “valid issues for judicial determination.”
He noted that “Within the time of his incarceration there has been relative peace in the south and the region has embraced a democratic purpose.
“Regrettably the situation at hand following the discharge of his charges will only seek to all the goodwill of the upcoming elections.
“I am convinced that the position of the court of appeal will be convenient for the people of the south east and is not healthy for our democracy.”
He wrote further, “His notoriety on Nigerian elections which is not liable for the people of the south east is a serious concern.”
The former Speaker said it will be great disservice to his people if I don’t speak up to protect the integrity of the region’s goodwill towards democratic leadership.
Ihedioha said, “I am of the strong position that upholding the decision of the court of appeal would case serious of consequences of insecurity evidenced in other countries of the world where political prisoners were instruments of chaos and violent riots.
“In view of the above, may I therefore solicit to the federal government, the attorney General and minister for justice to explore the appropriate legal options to ensure the safety of democracy in the South East.”
