The South-East caucus of the House of Representatives has called on President Bola Tinubu to demonstrate responsible leadership by granting a presidential pardon to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement issued on Monday after a meeting, the lawmakers said Nigeria has, at pivotal moments, depended on presidential magnanimity to heal divisions and strengthen peace.
“Indeed, the authors of our constitution conceived of Section 175 in anticipation that the bare dictates of the law may sometimes prove insufficient in tackling complex legal issues that are better handled politically via Presidential discretion,” they said.
The caucus stressed that an act of pardon from the President would reflect inclusive and stabilising leadership.
“It is our belief that an act of clemency by the President would resonate deeply across the country as a symbol of inclusiveness, fairness, and leadership that prioritises healing over division. It would send a clear message that dialogue is still possible, even in difficult circumstances.”
They added that such a gesture would open pathways for more constructive engagement and durable peace.
“Finally, the caucus believes that the release of Mazi Kanu, through pardon, would open space for broader engagement between the Federal Government, elected leaders, and community stakeholders to chart a sustainable and peaceful path forward.”
The lawmakers emphasised that a pardon would also align with the President’s responsibility to promote national unity.
“Therefore, in the spirit of national healing, unity, and responsible leadership, we respectfully urge the President to consider this request as an investment in Nigeria’s long-term peace and cohesion,” they added.
Highlighting the heavy burden the situation has placed on the South-East, the caucus noted: “Beyond its political nature, this matter has taken a deep emotional toll on families, communities, and the general population. The South-East has experienced profound social disruptions — closed markets, interrupted schooling, reduced commercial activity, and fear.
“A political resolution would ease these human burdens and allow communities to return to a dignified life,” they stated.
Underscoring the need for a leadership-driven solution, the caucus said: “However, our responsibility also requires us to speak with clarity when a legal matter evolves into a broader national concern with serious humanitarian, economic, and security consequences.
“After extensive deliberation, the caucus resolved to humbly appeal to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, to consider a political and humanitarian intervention using the constitutional powers granted under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution, to grant pardon to Mazi Kanu,” they added.
Nnamdi Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment on November 20 by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
