Benjamin Kalu, deputy speaker of the house of representatives, says efforts are now shifting toward a political resolution aimed at securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
His remarks follow the federal high court ruling in Abuja, which handed the IPOB leader a life sentence on terrorism charges.
In a statement, Kalu expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu would heed appeals from respected Igbo leaders pushing for Kanu’s freedom. He urged residents of the south-east and Nigerians at large to stay calm, stressing that the situation remains hopeful.
“It is now time to explore political solutions that had been hindered because the matter was before the court,” he said.
“But now that the court has finished, it is time to intensify requests for the president’s intervention, and we are sure that the president is not averse to it.
“We are going to get it. All hope is not lost. Our people should remain calm