Lawmaker Makes Emotional Appeal to Judge as Nnamdi Kanu Awaits Judgment

Obi Aguocha, a member of the House of Representatives, made a fervent plea before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, pleading with Justice James Omotosho to grant mercy to Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as the court was getting ready to impose his sentence.

In front of the court, Aguocha, who represents Abia State’s Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, identified himself and made what he called a personal appeal on behalf of his “brother, friend, and constituent.”

“My lord, I am the direct representative of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” the legislator said as he addressed the court. That’s why you see me here nearly every time, demonstrating my presence and support for him.

Aguocha mentioned that he and Kanu went to the same elementary and secondary schools. Despite being older than Kanu, Aguocha said that their shared past made him more determined to advocate for Kanu.

The senator begged the court to take into account how the ruling will affect peace and stability in the South-East and throughout Nigeria.

“My lord, I beg for mercy, clemency, and peace and stability, not only in the South-East but in Nigeria,” he uttered. Nigeria is bleeding, and we need to work together to solve our shared issues.

Aguocha further argued that “other actors outside this courtroom are also doing worse” and urged the prosecution and the court to examine Kanu’s activities within the larger context of national insecurity.

Aguocha told the court that Kanu’s trial had lasted almost ten years and that the IPOB leader, who is currently in his mid-50s, had been denied personal freedom and family life for a number of years.

“I beg the Lord to be merciful and to temper justice with mercy. I am grateful for the chance to speak to you, and I am a friend of the court,” he continued.

He expressed gratitude to Justice Omotosho for allowing him to submit the humanitarian appeal.

Justice Omotosho found Nnamdi Kanu guilty on all seven terrorism-related charges brought against him by the Federal Government shortly after Aguocha’s plea.

After then, the judge halted the proceedings and instructed everyone who wanted to watch the sentencing to come back to court between 10 and 4 p.m., when the sentencing phase is expected to resume.