Bashir Ahmad urges South-East leaders to counsel Nnamdi Kanu towards responsible conduct, stressing peace, unity, and national stability amid ongoing tensions.
Former Presidential Aide, Bashir Ahmad, has called on political, cultural, and opinion leaders in the South-East to counsel detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, to conduct himself responsibly during ongoing legal proceedings and negotiations, particularly as tensions surrounding his case continue to provoke national debate.
Ahmad made the comment in response to recent social media conversations regarding Kanu’s legal battles and the broader security implications for the country. He noted that while many are advocating for Kanu’s release, there must also be a commitment to national unity, peaceful dialogue, and respect for lawful processes.
According to Ahmad, stakeholders in the South-East hold a critical role in shaping the tone of advocacy surrounding Kanu’s case. He argued that narratives that incite hostility, ethnic division, or confrontation would only undermine efforts toward a sustainable resolution.
He further emphasized that Kanu’s activities have ripple effects that extend beyond the region, affecting communities in places such as Sokoto and other parts of northern Nigeria. Therefore, balancing advocacy with responsibility is essential for maintaining national stability and harmonious coexistence.
The former presidential aide urged Igbo leaders to leverage their influence in promoting constructive civic engagement, while encouraging the Federal Government to continue exploring dialogue-based approaches to addressing grievances linked to regional agitation.
Calls for the release of Nnamdi Kanu have intensified in recent months, with political leaders, religious organizations, and civil society groups arguing that dialogue, rather than prolonged detention, could help de-escalate tensions in the South-East. However, Ahmad insisted that any path toward resolution must prioritize accountability, peace, and respect for Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
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Stakeholders across the country continue to push for reforms that address security, equity, and governance concerns, while national conversations surrounding Kanu’s fate remain highly consequential to Nigeria’s fragile sociopolitical landscape.