By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
The Southern and Middle Belt Forum (SMBLF) has voiced its strong condemnation against the prolonged incarceration of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on treason charges by the Nigerian Government. This stern rebuke came during the recent convening of the forum in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
Under the chairmanship of Chief Edwin Clark, the SMBLF issued a communique expressing grave concerns over Kanu’s continued detention, highlighting the potential destabilizing effects on peace and security in the Southeast region.
Moreover, the forum denounced the establishment of an ethnic militia by the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore in Lafia, Nasarawa State, deeming it a dangerous escalation. President Bola Tinubu’s administration was warned not to turn a blind eye to such actions, as condoning them could provoke other ethnic groups to form their own militias, further exacerbating tensions.
“The SMBLF condemns the continued incarceration of Nnamdi Kanu and its implication on peace and security in the South East,” the communique declared. It urged President Tinubu to uphold the rule of law and ensure compliance with court rulings regarding Kanu’s case, emphasizing that his release is pivotal for fostering peace in the region.
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The leaders also decried the escalating insecurity plaguing various parts of the country, including Plateau, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Benue states, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. They expressed incredulity at the inability of security forces to apprehend criminal elements, despite the brazenness of their activities.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the forum called for a comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s security architecture. Specifically, they advocated for greater federal government support towards state and community policing initiatives as a means to combat the rising threats.
Prominent figures attending the meeting included Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide; Chief Ayo Adebanjo of Afenifere; Dr. Pogu Bitrus, National President of Middle Belt Forum (MBF); and Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, National Chairman of Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). Additionally, elder statesmen, former governors, ex-members of the National Assembly, former ministers, and other leaders from across the regions were present.
The gathering concluded with a unified call for concerted efforts to address the prevailing challenges, stressing the imperative of upholding justice, rule of law, and collaborative security measures for the well-being and stability of Nigeria.
