Table of Contents
- Appeal for Presidential Pardon
- Communiqué Details
- Concerns Over Judgment
- Grievances of the People
- Calls for Reconciliation
Ndi Igbo in Germany and Nigerians living abroad have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate compassion by granting a presidential pardon to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the convicted leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
This appeal was made in a communiqué released on Friday, co-signed by Benjamin Chinaka, National Coordinator, and Chinasa Ezeji, Secretary General.
The request followed an emergency meeting of the association that took place on November 21, 2025, in Frankfurt, Germany, where members expressed serious concern over the life sentence imposed on Kanu by a Nigerian court.
The group cautioned that this ruling could exacerbate ethnic tensions and worsen the already fragile political climate in the country.
“Nigeria is currently facing significant security and socio-political challenges. In such a sensitive period, this judgment may further deepen divisions among ethnic groups and threaten democratic unity,” the statement emphasized.
“We respectfully appeal to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to utilize his constitutional power of mercy and grant a presidential pardon to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.”
NIG pointed out that many of Kanu’s longstanding grievances resonate with the frustrations of ordinary Nigerians, especially in the South-East, who feel economically disadvantaged, politically marginalized, and insecure within the current national framework.
The group urged President Tinubu to “make a generous decision in the interest of national unity, peace, and stability,” adding that releasing Kanu could be a crucial step toward restoring trust in the Nigerian project.
This appeal comes amid increasing domestic and international calls for a conciliatory approach to address separatist movements and regional dissatisfaction in South-East Nigeria.
According to DAILY POST, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court convicted Kanu and sentenced him to life imprisonment for terrorism-related offenses, after which he was moved to the Sokoto Correctional Facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis of the appeal for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's pardon?
The appeal is based on concerns that Kanu's life sentence could exacerbate ethnic tensions and worsen Nigeria's fragile political situation, particularly during a time of significant security and socio-political challenges.
Who signed the communiqué requesting the presidential pardon?
The communiqué was jointly signed by Benjamin Chinaka, the National Coordinator, and Chinasa Ezeji, the Secretary General of the association.
What were the sentiments expressed during the emergency meeting?
Members expressed deep concern over the life sentence handed to Kanu and highlighted the frustrations of ordinary Nigerians, especially in the South-East, regarding economic disadvantages and political marginalization.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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