Kanu’s conviction: Anyaso urges president Tinubu to grant presidential Pardon to IPOB leader

By Editor, Umuahia

A business mogul cum politician, Dr. Chima Desmond Anyaso has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to exercise his constitutional executive power and grant a presidential pardon to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu who was sentences to life imprisonment by the courts on Thursday.

The public affairs advocate, and former YPP deputy gubernatorial candidate in Abia State, joins a growing list of respected Igbo voices making similar appeals.

In a statement released from his Igbere country home in Bende Local Government Area, Abia State, on Friday, Dr. Anyaso stated that the current moment provides an ideal opportunity for a decisive political resolution.

He explained that he had intentionally avoided making public comments on the matter earlier to avoid influencing a case that was still before the courts, adding that now that the judiciary had delivered its verdict despite the possibility of further appeals, he believes it is an appropriate time for presidential intervention in the interest of national cohesion.

“With the courts having spoken and the judicial process at a stage where executive discretion can be applied, I respectfully urge President Tinubu to grant a presidential pardon to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” Dr. Anyaso said.

Continuing, he said that, “This is a moment for the President to show statesmanship, foster healing, and bring the nation together.”

Dr. Anyaso further highlighted that a broad spectrum of Nigerians including traditional leaders, political figures, business communities, civil society groups, religious bodies, and everyday citizens have consistently called for a political approach to resolving the issue. In his view, granting a pardon now would ease tensions, promote reconciliation, and reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence.

“Nigeria is at a critical crossroads,we need unity, healing, and a renewed collective purpose. A presidential pardon for Nnamdi Kanu would demonstrate this administration’s dedication to peace, justice, and national progress.”

He also urged all stakeholders and concerned groups to prioritize dialogue, national unity, and meaningful engagement over division or confrontation.