Abia State, Nigeria, Senator Orji Kalu has urged a political approach to resolving the legal matters surrounding Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), following Kanu’s recent conviction by the Federal High Court in Abuja on terrorism-related charges.

The senator, representing Abia North, explained that he has been engaging with the Federal Government to find a resolution for the IPOB leader. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Kalu said, “The problem of Nnamdi Kanu is something we need to solve through a political process. I have been working with the Federal Government of Nigeria to address this issue, and nobody should question the decision of Justice Omotosho.”

Kalu also noted that while Kanu’s legal team is expected to appeal the ruling, he plans to contact the Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi, to advise the President on the matter.

Impact of IPOB Activities

The lawmaker lamented the broader consequences of IPOB’s actions in the South-East, citing job losses and disrupted livelihoods. He also mentioned that dozens of Igbo citizens have been killed due to the group’s activities.

Pressure on Buhari for Kanu’s Release

Reflecting on past efforts, Kalu revealed that he personally pressured former President Muhammadu Buhari in April 2017 to facilitate Kanu’s release for trial. He acknowledged the contributions of Mamman Daura and then-Attorney General Abubakar Malami in ensuring Kanu’s temporary freedom.

“I know the pressure I personally put on President Buhari before Kanu was released in April 2017. Yet nobody is talking about the Igbo who were killed,” Kalu said.

Court Verdict and Sentencing

Kanu’s legal battle dates back to 2015. Last Thursday, Justice James Omotosho sentenced him to life imprisonment for counts one, four, five, and six. The judge handed down a 20-year sentence for count three and a five-year term for count seven, with no option of a fine. All sentences are to run concurrently.

During the judgment, the court found that Kanu ordered a sit-at-home directive in the South-East, committing acts considered terrorism by broadcasting threats that could disrupt public life.

Despite the sentence, Aloy Ejimakor, a consultant for Kanu, has vowed to challenge the life imprisonment ruling.