As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Anniversary, the Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, has made a heartfelt appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The group urged the President to seize the moment and grant a political pardon to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Speaking in Awka during an interview commemorating the anniversary, the National Vice President of Ohaneze, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, emphasized that Kanu's release is key to restoring peace in the southeast and identifying those responsible for the violence in the region. He believes this action would put an end to the disruptive sit-at-home orders that have plagued the area.
"Our major demand in this year’s Independence Day celebration is for the President to use the joy associated with the day to grant a political pardon to one of our sons and the leader of IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, from DSS detention," Okeke-Ogene stated.
He also highlighted Ohaneze's commitment to Nigeria's democracy and reiterated that Kanu's release would promote unity and peace for all Nigerians living in Igbo land. The organization further called on southeast governors to strengthen security measures and ensure the welfare of their citizens.
While urging President Tinubu to act swiftly in addressing the insecurity, hunger, and socio-economic difficulties facing the country, Okeke-Ogene lamented that Nigeria is still progressing at a "snail’s pace" in its development.
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