Nnamdi Kanu: Dickson Pushes for Political Resolution, National Unity Efforts

Former Governor of Bayelsa State and Chairman of the South-South Senate Caucus, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to initiate a comprehensive political process aimed at resolving the separatist agitation led by detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. In an official statement titled “Nnamdi Kanu: The Imperative of a Political Solution,” Senator Dickson emphasized the need for dialogue to end violence, restore normalcy, and address long-standing grievances in the South East and across Nigeria.

Dickson aligned himself with other leaders advocating for a resolution that could lead to Kanu’s release under conditions promoting peace and reintegration. He stressed that such a move should be framed as a national effort rather than a regional demand, noting that Nigerians who value unity, peace, and justice support this approach.

Condemning the violence in the South East and the terrorist attacks in the North, Dickson expressed sympathy for all victims. Drawing from his experience as a former police officer and Attorney-General, he highlighted the distress caused by the killing of security operatives and insisted that lawlessness must be rejected everywhere.

According to the senator, while arrests and prosecutions have historically been the state’s response to separatist movements, punitive measures alone have never brought lasting peace. He argued that sustainable solutions are achieved through political processes guided by leaders who prioritise national interest over sectional or personal considerations.

Dickson cited global and local precedents, including Nelson Mandela in South Africa and Isaac Adaka Boro in Nigeria, noting that political engagement ultimately yielded peace. He also referenced the Niger Delta Presidential Amnesty Programme under Presidents Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan, and highlighted General Yakubu Gowon’s decision to pardon Boro and integrate him into federal forces during the civil war as examples of broad-minded statesmanship.

The senator urged President Tinubu, in his capacity as a statesman, to lead a peace initiative addressing the root causes of separatist agitations, ensuring Kanu’s renunciation of violence while correcting historical injustices and structural imbalances. He also called for humane treatment and secure custody for Kanu, warning that new conflict zones could strain already overstretched security forces.

Dickson pledged support for national mobilisation against terrorism, extremist attacks, and banditry, while appealing to the South East, particularly the youth, to remain calm and participate in political processes fostering a fair and inclusive Nigeria. As chairman of the South-South Senate Caucus, he disclosed ongoing consultations with colleagues from the South East and other regions to promote national stability.

The statement concluded: “As everyone knows, I am available for any engagement that can lead to a restructured Nigeria that will work for all.”