The separatist agitation led by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has resulted in the deaths of over 30,000 people and widespread destruction of property in the Southeast, according to Sen. Orji Kalu, representing Abia North.
Kalu made the remarks on Channels Television’s “Sunday Politics,” following a federal high court sentencing of Kanu to life imprisonment.
“It’s not the time for noise-making or fighting. It’s a time for sober reflections,” Kalu said, emphasizing the need for a holistic solution to the crisis.
“We have to solve this problem holistically. Do you know that over 30,000 Igbos were killed? People who have shops lost their businesses,” he added, expressing concern that the focus on security casualties has overshadowed civilian deaths and economic losses.
Kalu, a former Abia governor, recounted personal losses, including a late mother’s friend whose rice business was destroyed, leading to bankruptcy. “My mother’s friend had a rice shop… they ransacked the old woman’s shops and she went bankrupt.
“Nobody talks about it,” he lamented, urging Igbo people to avoid emotional reactions and instead seek a political solution. “Let Igbos stop being emotional.
“I want us to settle down, go on our knees and find a way that the man can be released.”
The senator, however, defended Justice James Omotosho, who convicted Kanu, saying, “Nobody should question the decision of Justice Omotosho. If you are displeased, you go to the appellate court. It’s not to start insulting the man.”
Kalu criticized Kanu’s behaviour in court, saying, “You cannot rant in a court of competent jurisdiction. I take exception to it.”
Persecondnews had reported that Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment on charges related to terrorism and for being part of a proscribed organization.
The court deemed his sit-at-home orders and threats as terrorist acts under Nigerian law.
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