A group of fifty House of Representatives members from various regions and political parties in Nigeria, known as the Concerned Federal Lawmakers for Peace and Security in the South East, has urged President Bola Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra. They requested that the President invoke Section 174 of the Nigerian Constitution and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, to facilitate this release.

In a three-page letter dated June 19, 2024, the lawmakers also called on the President to initiate a peace initiative to address the ongoing issues in the southeast region. The signatories include representatives from diverse states, such as Hon Obi Aguocha (Abia), Hon Ikenga Ugochinyere (Imo), and Hon Aliyu Mustapha (Kaduna), among others.

They urged the President to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, to use his powers of nolle prosequi to discontinue Kanu’s trial. The lawmakers believe that Kanu's release is long overdue and would promote essential dialogue for peace and inclusivity.

The legislators highlighted past instances where similar gestures were extended, citing the cases of Omoyele Sowore and Sunday Igboho. They expressed concern over the deteriorating security, economic decline, and displacement of families in the South-East, arguing that addressing these issues would demonstrate the President’s commitment to the rule of law and justice.

The letter emphasized that releasing Kanu could dismantle the violence and unrest in the region, fostering economic growth and national unity. The lawmakers believe this action would set a precedent for resolving conflicts through dialogue rather than prolonged legal battles.

They concluded by expressing optimism about a positive response from the President, believing it would enhance his administration’s legacy of prioritizing national unity, peace, and progress.