A coalition of traditional rulers in Umuahia North, Abia State, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant a presidential pardon to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, following the recent judgment that convicted him on terrorism charges.
In an official statement released under the banner of the Umuahia North Council of Traditional Rulers, the royal fathers described Kanu as an “illustrious son” and insisted that he is not a terrorist, but rather a freedom fighter who has consistently spoken against injustice, marginalization, and social inequality affecting his people.
The statement, issued from the Council Chambers at the Umuahia North Local Government headquarters, expressed deep emotional distress over the ruling delivered in Abuja. The monarchs emphasized that despite the pain caused by the judgment, their confidence in Kanu’s innocence remains unshaken.
“Nnamdi Kanu is Not a Terrorist” — Monarchs Declare
In the press release signed by prominent members of the traditional institution, the royal fathers stressed that Kanu’s agitation for self-determination should not be misconstrued as terrorism.
“For over a decade, our son has stood before the courts of this nation, enduring trials, detentions, and unimaginable hardships,” the statement read. “The recent judgment does not erase what we know in truth: Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not a terrorist. He is a freedom fighter who has consistently spoken out against injustice and the marginalization of his people.”
The monarchs also referenced past observations by courts on procedural irregularities surrounding Kanu’s trial, arguing that the matter remains legally contestable. They urged Kanu to continue to pursue his constitutional right of appeal through the appellate courts, all the way to the Supreme Court if necessary.
Appeal to President Tinubu for Clemency
The royal council reaffirmed its earlier plea to President Bola Tinubu to exercise the constitutional prerogative of mercy by granting Kanu a presidential pardon. They emphasized that such a gesture would promote national healing, reduce tensions in the South-East, and foster reconciliation.
“Our plea is not one of defiance but one of compassion,” the statement added. “Not one of confrontation but of reconciliation. Not one of bitterness, but of hope that this nation may yet bind its wounds and heal.”
The traditional rulers expressed confidence that releasing Kanu to them, his community, and his family would restore calm and provide an opportunity for constructive dialogue.
Royal Fathers Call for Peace, Restraint
Amid rising concern over possible youth unrest following the judgment, the monarchs issued a strong advisory urging the public—especially young people in the South-East—to remain calm and refrain from any actions that could lead to violence or breakdown of law and order.
“As Royal Fathers, we sue for peace and calm. We call for unity and restraint among our youths and all who are pained by this development. Let no one take the law into their own hands. Let wisdom guide our actions and courage guide our hearts,” they said.
They reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the demand for Kanu’s release is pursued through lawful and peaceful means.
Supporters Praised for Standing Firm
The Council extended heartfelt appreciation to all individuals, groups, and well-wishers who stood by Kanu throughout the duration of the court proceedings.
“We proudly recognize each of you as heroes,” the statement reads, acknowledging the solidarity shown by supporters who attended court sessions and advocated for fair treatment of the detained agitator.
Context: A Prolonged Legal Battle
Nnamdi Kanu has been in and out of detention for over ten years, facing multiple charges related to treason, terrorism, and incitement. His 2021 re-arrest in Kenya and controversial extradition to Nigeria triggered international debate and domestic agitation.
The Federal High Court in Abuja recently convicted him on terrorism-related counts, a judgment that his legal team has vowed to challenge up to the Supreme Court.
Human rights groups, civil society organizations, and political leaders across the South-East have repeatedly called for a political solution to Kanu’s case, arguing that criminal prosecution cannot address long-standing grievances in the region.
A Unified Royal Appeal
The Umuahia North Traditional Rulers Council reiterated that it will continue pushing for justice and fairness.
“The ancient kingdom of Umuahia stands firm,” the monarchs declared. “Our spirits do not bow as Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains our son, our pride, and our hope.”
The press statement was endorsed by senior traditional leaders including:
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HRM Eze (Sir) Innocent A. Nwaigwe, Chairman
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HRH Eze (Sir) Ukaegbu P.K, Vice Chairman
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HRH Eze Emelike C., Secretary
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HRH Eze (Sir) Udoka C.E, Treasurer
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HRH Eze Asomugha Goddy, Organizing Secretary
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HRH Eze Akomas J.M, Public Relations Officer
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Other patrons and signatories of the Council.
As the legal process continues and the Federal Government considers its next steps, the call from Umuahia’s traditional rulers adds to the mounting pressure on the Nigerian presidency to pursue a political settlement that could calm regional tensions and redefine the national approach to issues of self-determination, justice, and inclusive governance.
