“You Can’t Beg Bandits, Punish Nnamdi Kanu At The Same Time!” – Falana Blasts FG

Renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has urged the Federal Government to resolve the case of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, through political means rather than the courtroom.

Falana made the call during a visit to the country home of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, in Umuehim Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

Speaking with journalists after the meeting, the Lagos-based legal icon said he would not comment directly on the ongoing court proceedings but insisted that Kanu’s matter should be treated as a political issue requiring dialogue and understanding.

“I cannot comment on pending proceedings. You understand me? Like you said, the case was on Wednesday, but I believe it’s a matter that should be sorted out outside the courtroom,” Falana stated.

According to him, if governments can negotiate and strike deals with bandits and other criminal elements, there is no justification for not adopting a political approach to Kanu’s case.

“For me, it’s a political case. And if you have a situation where some governments are negotiating with bandits or other criminal elements, there can be no basis for not having that matter resolved politically,” he emphasized.

Falana’s position echoes growing calls from stakeholders across Nigeria’s political and civil rights circles for a political settlement of the long-running case, which many believe will foster peace, unity, and reconciliation in the country.

The senior advocate’s visit to Governor Otti’s residence also provided an opportunity to exchange ideas on governance, justice, and the rule of law as key pillars for sustainable development.