Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has called for restraint and constructive dialogue following the life imprisonment sentence handed to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Kanu was convicted on Thursday by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, who found him guilty on multiple terrorism-related offences.
The judge imposed life imprisonment on counts one, two, four, five, and six of the seven-count charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS).
For count three, which involved belonging to a proscribed terrorist organisation, the court sentenced him to 20 years without an option of fine.
Count seven, relating to the illegal importation of a radio transmitter used for Radio Biafra, attracted an additional five-year term, also without an option of fine.
Justice Omotosho said that although the law permitted him to impose a death sentence for terrorism offences, he chose not to do so “as a Christian.”
He also described Kanu as unruly throughout the proceedings and ordered that he be held in protective custody outside Kuje Prison, with the radio equipment forfeited to the Federal Government.
Reacting in a post on her X account after returning from a five-day NTAC monitoring assignment in Zanzibar, Tanzania, Ojukwu expressed disappointment at the judgment but urged the public to remain calm.
She wrote: “This is not the outcome we anticipated, nor prayed for, but a reality that is now upon us.”
Calling for restraint, she added:
“There comes a time in the history of a people when there is need for calm. I therefore advise Ndigbo, and Nigerians as a whole, that such a period is now! There is utmost need to exercise restraint in response to this situation.”
She warned against actions that could escalate tensions at home or abroad:
“All actions which could be deemed incendiary, and which might escalate the situation at home or in the diaspora should be curtailed. A word is enough for the wise.”
Ojukwu emphasised the need for broad consultation among Igbo leaders and stakeholders:
“This situation requires careful reflection and constructive dialogue involving all Igbo stakeholders, Governors, senators, Members of the House of Representatives, clergy, traditional rulers, politicians and business people to engage with government authorities collectively.”
She cautioned against anger-driven responses, saying:
“Beating the drums of fury and sabre rattling will only generate diminishing returns, and in the worst case scenario, yet another wasteland.”
The minister insisted that dialogue remains the most effective path toward resolving the crisis:
“The quest for mutual coexistence of Ndigbo in Nigeria with justice, equity and dignity is a commitment which requires our collective resolve, and maintaining peace and order is essential to ensuring the security of all citizens, regardless of tribe or creed.”
Reassuring the public, she added:
“I would like to reassure Ndigbo, Nigerians and our foreign partners that there are still prospects of resolving this impasse in a manner that reduces national anxiety and societal trauma. I oblige everyone to remain calm and patient.”
Ojukwu said she has consistently engaged stakeholders on issues concerning the region and called for a united approach:
“Over the years I have continued to engage on these issues with several stakeholders. Now is the time for us all in Ala Igbo to put all hands on deck, and to have a joint engagement, sincerely, involving all the South Eastern States, to seek a political resolution to this matter.”
