The Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) expresses deep concern over the recent judgment sentencing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment. We strongly condemn this outcome and call for his immediate and unconditional release. Our position is anchored on the fundamental principles of justice, equity, and democratic freedoms which Nigeria must uphold if it seeks to retain its moral and constitutional legitimacy.
Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is an agitator whose actions stem from the legitimate grievances of a section of the Nigerian population that has, for decades, endured political marginalization, economic exclusion, and systemic injustice. His agitation regardless of differing opinions does not rise to the level of terrorism. It is a political struggle rooted in the quest for fairness and social justice. Criminalizing such agitation while ignoring the underlying issues only deepens national disunity.
It is a glaring contradiction that while Mazi Kanu faces life imprisonment, several other individuals who made more incendiary statements or engaged in actions of greater national concern have regained their freedom. Nigerians have not forgotten:
• Omoyele Sowore, who openly called for a revolution against the Nigerian state.
• Sunday Igboho, who vocally advocated for the Oduduwa Republic and was released despite facing serious allegations.
• Asari Dokubo, who at one point issued threats including the possibility of shooting down military aircraft.
• Former members of Boko Haram, responsible for some of the worst acts of terrorism in Nigeria’s history, who have been granted amnesty and reintegrated into society.
It is therefore disturbing that a man whose actions are primarily political and expressive actions grounded in the constitutional right to freedom of speech and self-determination should be subjected to the harshest punishment imaginable. This inconsistency suggests a troubling double standard that undermines public confidence in the justice system.
The marginalization of the Igbo nation is a lived reality, reflected in political representation, federal appointments, infrastructural neglect, economic exclusion, and persistent security challenges. These issues should be addressed through sincere political dialogue, not through punitive measures that will only inflame tensions and widen national divisions.
FOSAD insists that the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu must be resolved politically, not judicially. Dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusion are the tools of mature democracies. The continued detention and life imprisonment sentence of a man whose followers number in millions is not only unjust but dangerous for national cohesion.
We remind the Federal Government that the right to self-determination is recognized by international law and is part of the global framework of human rights. While the Nigerian state may object to the method of agitation, it cannot criminalize the underlying right itself.
We therefore demand:
1. The immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
2. A renewed national conversation on restructuring, equity, and the grievances of the South-East.
3. A political solution that prioritizes peace, justice, and national unity over repression.
Nigeria stands at crossroads. Choosing dialogue over force will determine whether we move forward as a united nation or continue down a path of avoidable tension and mistrust.
Signed
Dr. Stephen Nwala
President, Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD)
Dr. Uzor Ngoladi
Secretary General, Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD)
