Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has stated that significant efforts are currently underway for the release of the leader of the Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, from detention.
Speaking virtually on the “South East Political Roundtable,” a current affairs radio program on FLO FM in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, on Tuesday, Kalu said that talks were actively ongoing to secure Kanu’s freedom.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu urged the youth of the South East to cease the observance of sit-at-home orders, noting that this practice has been intimidating potential investors who aim to contribute to the region’s development.
Discussing the positive impacts of the recently launched Peace in South East Project (PISE-P) in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, he encouraged those carrying arms to disarm and join the non-violent approach advocated by the initiative to address security challenges and other community concerns.
Kalu called for support to enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government to perform optimally, affirming the President’s interest in fostering the development of the South East.
He said, “We can’t put all our programs and plans on social media. He’s my brother. Is he in the mix of what we are trying to do? Yes! It’s one of our agendas to ensure he’s released. Who wants their brother to be in jail?
“We are working underground. There’s a detailed strategy. It’s not by violence, you can’t coerce the government through violence. It has never worked and won’t work. Let’s be wiser. The wisdom is in peace. Let’s quench the violence.”
