‘Tamper Justice With Mercy’, Lawmaker Pleads Leniency For Nnamdi Kanu

A member of the House of Representatives, Obi Aguocha, has pleaded with Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja to show mercy to the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, as the court prepared to deliver its sentencing decision on the separatist on Thursday evening.

Aguocha, who represents the Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency of Abia State, rose in court to make a personal appeal on Kanu’s behalf, describing him as a brother, friend, and constituent.

Introducing himself, he said, “My lord, I am the direct representative of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. That is why you see me here almost every time, showing presence and solidarity with him.”

He told the court that he and Kanu attended primary and secondary schools together, noting that although he was senior to Kanu, he felt a duty, both personal and official, to speak for him.

Aguocha urged the court to temper justice with mercy, stressing that the outcome of the trial carried implications for peace and stability in the South-East and the nation at large.

“My lord, I plead for mercy, I plead for clemency, and I appeal for peace and stability, not just in the South-East, but in Nigeria. Nigeria is bleeding, and we must find common solutions to our common problems,” he said.

He further appealed to the prosecution to consider the broader security situation in the country, arguing that several actors outside the courtroom “are also doing worse” than Kanu.

Aguocha reminded the court that Kanu’s trial had spanned nearly a decade, during which the defendant, now in his mid-50s, had been separated from his family and community.

“I plead for the lord to show mercy and temper justice with mercy. I am a friend of the court, and I appreciate the opportunity to address you,” he added.

Justice Omotosho later convicted Kanu on all seven terrorism charges brought against him. He subsequently stood down proceedings and instructed those wishing to witness the sentencing to return to the courtroom at 3:45 p.m. this Thursday evening.