By Vincent Ujumadu

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to grant political pardon to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), during the celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary.

In an interview in Awka, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, National Vice President of Ohanaeze, argued that Kanu’s release would help restore peace, allow the government to identify those perpetuating violence, and effectively end the troubling sit-at-home practice in the South East geopolitical zone.

“Our primary demand this Independence Day is for the President to seize this moment of celebration to grant political pardon to our son, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, currently held in DSS detention,” Okeke-Ogene stated.

He emphasized that Ohanaeze believes in Nigeria’s democracy and that Kanu’s release would foster peace and unity among all Nigerians residing in Igbo land. “We also urge South East governors to strengthen the security framework and enhance the welfare of the people in the region,” he added.

While calling on President Tinubu to take urgent action that would bring relief to millions of Nigerians facing insecurity, hunger, and other socio-economic challenges, Okeke-Ogene lamented that the country is still developing at a slow pace.