‘Igbo Youths Leaders and Stakeholders Assembly’ has described yesterday’s judgment sentencing the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to life imprisonment as a “welcome development” that will open doors for political resolutions in the IPOB’s leader saga.
On Thursday, a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, sentenced Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment on counts 1, 4, 5, and 6 related to terrorism charges. The embattled IPOB leader also received 20 years imprisonment on count 3 and 5 years on count 7, both without an option of fine.
Reacting in Awka, the Assembly’s leader, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, said he was relieved that a judgment had finally been delivered after years of waiting, which he said caused psychological distress among people of the Southeast.
“The judgment is a welcome development. After so long, the judiciary has responded to the cries of our people over the injustice of keeping Mazi Kanu on awaiting trial without justice or judgment,” he said.
According to him, the ruling now creates an opening for a presidential pardon or wider political intervention, which was previously impossible while the case was still active in court.
“Now that judgment has been passed, political solutions can be explored. You cannot apply political intervention or presidential pardon while a matter is still pending in court. This judgment has provided that platform,” he stated.
Okpalaezeukwu expressed optimism that there would be no need for an appeal, as stakeholders are hopeful that the Federal Government will prioritize a political settlement.
Speaking on Kanu’s conduct during the trial, he noted that emotions naturally run high in such situations but emphasized that the key priority is national healing and peace.
“Kanu is human and not immune to mistakes. What matters now is addressing the larger issues facing Ndigbo through genuine dialogue and political engagement,” he added.
He further explained that Kanu’s refusal to open his defence during the trial has made a political resolution even more likely.
Calling on President Tinubu, he appealed for a holistic political solution to Nigeria’s socio economic and security challenges, not limited to Kanu’s case alone.
“National healing is essential because indeed there are wounds. We urge the President to rise to the challenge. May God guide the nation and help the cause of Ndigbo,” he said.