Rep Appears In Court, Urges Judge To Show Mercy To Nnamdi Kanu
A member of the House of Representatives, Obi Aguocha, on Thursday pleaded with Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, to show mercy to the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, as the court prepared to deliver his sentence.
Aguocha, representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in Abia State, appeared in court to make a personal appeal, describing Kanu as a brother, friend, and constituent.
“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,” Aguocha said.
He recounted that he and Kanu attended primary and secondary school together and, despite being Kanu’s senior, felt a personal responsibility to speak for him as a federal lawmaker.
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Aguocha urged the court to temper justice with mercy, highlighting the wider implications of the case for peace and stability in the South-East and across Nigeria.
“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 called on the prosecution to consider the broader context of insecurity, noting that “other actors outside the courtroom are also doing worse” than Kanu.
Aguocha reminded the court that Kanu’s trial had lasted nearly a decade and that he had spent years away from his family and community.
“I plead for the lord to show mercy and temper justice with mercy. I am a friend of the court, and I appreciate the opportunity to address you,” he added.
Justice Omotosho later convicted Kanu on all seven terrorism charges and adjourned the sentencing, instructing those willing to witness it to return at 3:45 pm.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
