A member of the House of Representatives, Obi Aguocha, on Thursday urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to show compassion to detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, as the court prepared to deliver its judgment.
Aguocha, who represents the Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency of Abia State, made the heartfelt plea before Justice James Omotosho. He noted that Kanu was not just his constituent but someone he had known since their early years.
Introducing himself to the court, the lawmaker explained his presence, saying, “My lord, I am the direct representative of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. That is why you see me here almost every time, showing presence and solidarity with him.”
He narrated that he and Kanu attended both primary and secondary school together, stressing that the long-running legal battle had deeply affected the defendant, who has spent several years separated from his family.
Aguocha urged the court to “temper justice with mercy,” emphasizing that the outcome of the case could influence peace and stability in the South-East and the entire nation. “My lord, I plead for mercy, I plead for clemency, and I appeal for peace and stability — not just in the South-East, but in Nigeria. Nigeria is bleeding, and we must find common solutions to our common problems,” he said.
He also appealed to the prosecution to consider the wider security context in the country, pointing out that “other actors outside this courtroom are also doing worse.”
Following the plea, Justice Omotosho convicted Kanu on all seven terrorism-related charges brought against him. The judge then stood the matter down and directed that those interested in witnessing the sentencing should return to the courtroom by 3:50 p.m.
