The South East Youth Stakeholders Forum, a coalition of youth organizations across the South East region of Nigeria, has called on President Bola Tinubu to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, from detention.
In an emergency meeting held on Saturday, the forum discussed the pressing issues facing the South East and formally requested the President’s intervention in Kanu’s prolonged incarceration.
“We appeal to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the father of the nation and a true Nigerian, to instruct the Attorney General of the Federation to halt the prosecution of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, thereby facilitating his release”.
“We believe this is a crucial step in addressing the ongoing security challenges in the South East. His release would help end the insecurity plaguing the region, foster genuine reconciliation, and ease tensions across the South East,” the forum stated.
A communique issued by representatives from the five South East states, led by Enugu State Chairman Mazi Ezenwa Onyirimba, emphasized that Kanu’s release would create a conducive environment for dialogue with youth in the region who have resorted to violence against the state.
“The release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu would not only demonstrate a commitment to unity but would also catalyze efforts toward national harmony and stability. It would build trust between the government and the people of the South East, paving the way for lasting peace and security,” the statement read.
The forum also called for the creation of a South East Youth Stakeholders Dialogue platform, aimed at addressing socio-economic and security challenges, developing actionable strategies for sustainable development, and fostering unity among youth groups in the region.
While making their appeal, the group expressed appreciation for President Tinubu’s establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).
“We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership in establishing the South East Development Commission (SEDC), which offers a structured approach to tackling our region’s unique challenges through infrastructure, economic empowerment, and social progress,” they said.
The group also praised the efforts of Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who initiated the SEDC bill, and other stakeholders in the National Assembly for their support in appointing the Commission’s executives and board members.
Reaffirming their commitment to peace, unity, and development in the South East and the nation, the forum urged all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and collaboration to build a prosperous and secure future for the region.
“We call on all stakeholders to embrace dialogue, cooperation, and progressive initiatives to ensure a prosperous and secure South East,” the forum concluded.
