Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, says a political pathway is now being actively explored to secure the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), following his sentencing by a federal high court in Abuja.
Kalu noted that despite the life sentence handed down on Thursday, the prospects of Kanu regaining his freedom remain alive, stressing that the judgment has not extinguished ongoing political engagements.
He added that the conclusion of the judicial process has created new space for political dialogue that had been stalled while the matter was before the court.
The statement was issued by Levinus Nwabughiogu, Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Kalu said key stakeholders across the South East are already intensifying appeals to the presidency to intervene and facilitate a political resolution.
He expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s openness to considering such appeals, noting that the President has shown willingness to listen to constructive voices advocating peace and stability.
The Deputy Speaker urged residents of the South East — and Nigerians generally — to remain calm, assuring that the next phase of engagements is underway behind the scenes.
He said the situation calls for restraint and patience, emphasising that political solutions are now back on the front burner.
According to him, “all hope is not lost,” despite the weight of the court’s verdict, as the environment is now ripe for stronger political lobbying.
Kalu added that the intensified consultations and appeals in the coming days will focus on securing a resolution that promotes unity and addresses long-standing concerns in the region.
