An unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), currently standing trial, runs contrary to the doctrine of separation of powers between the Executive and Judiciary, President Muhammadu Buhari has said.
Receiving a group under the aegis of Highly Respected Igbo Greats, led by First Republic parliamentarian and Minister of Aviation, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, at State House, Abuja, the President told the 93-year-old statesman:
“You’ve made an extremely difficult demand on me as leader of this country. The implication of your request is very serious. In the last six years, since I became President, nobody would say I have confronted or interfered in the work of the Judiciary. God has spared you, and given you a clear head at this age, with very sharp memory. A lot of people half your age are confused already. But the demand you made is heavy. I will consider it.”
Stressing his policy of non-interference with the Judiciary, President Buhari said when Kanu jumped bail, got arrested and brought back to the country, “I said the best thing was to subject him to the system. Let him make his case in court, instead of giving very negative impressions of the country from outside. I feel it’s even a favour to give him that opportunity.”
The President condoled with Chief Amaechi, who recently buried his wife, praying that her soul would rest in peace.
The nonagenarian had described the situation in the Southeast as “painful and pathetic,” lamenting that businesses have collapsed, education is crumbling, and there is fear everywhere.
He pleaded for a political, rather than military solution, requesting that if Kanu was released to him as the only First Republic Minister still alive, “he would no longer say the things he had been saying,” stressing that he could control him, “not because I have anything to do with them (IPOB), but I am highly respected in Igbo land today.”
Chief Amaechi said twice he had interfaced with Nnamdi Kanu in the past, and the latter rescinded orders earlier given on civil disobedience.
He concluded: “I don’t want to leave this planet without peace returning to my country. I believe in one big, united Nigeria, a force in Africa. Mr President, I want you to be remembered as a person who saw Nigeria burning, and you quenched the fire.”
Other people in the visiting delegation were; His Excellency Chukwuemeka Ezeife, former Governor of Anambra State, Bishop Sunday Onuoha of the Methodist Church, Chief Barrister Goddy Uwazurike, former President of Igbo socio-cultural group, Aka Ikenga, and Mr Tagbo Mbazulike Amaechi.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
November 19, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI FELICITATES WITH APC CARETAKER COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN, MAI MALA BUNI, ON 54TH BIRTHDAY
President Muhammadu Buhari sends warm greetings to the Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee, Mai Mala Buni, on his 54th birthday.
The President commends the party chieftain for providing exceptional and visionary leadership at state and national levels, noting in particular the role played by the Chairman, who is also the Governor of Yobe State, in successfully repositioning the party, with remarkable evidence in increased membership, healthy social atmosphere and exemplary internal democracy.
The President extols the political leader for inspiring hope in the young and old for a greater and better future for Nigeria by embarking on a historic reconciliation and restitution drive that has strengthened the governing party and positioned it for victories, starting with the successful ward, local and state conventions, and build up to a national convention.
President Buhari notes the laudable achievements of the Buni led political team that rekindled hope in members, attracted new members, including key leaders in other parties, and steadily showed the APC as the most organised, well-structured and fully motivated platform for bringing development to the country.
As the Governor of Yobe State turns 54, the President prays for his good health, more wisdom and courage to actualize his dreams for the party and the country.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 19, 2021