Politics

Even Kanu’s Execution Won’t End Southeast Agitation — Senator Warns

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on November 26th, 2025.

A Nigerian senator has cautioned that the ongoing agitation in the South-East would not disappear even if the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, were to be executed. According to him, the crisis runs far deeper than the fate of any single individual, and must be addressed through honest dialogue, justice, and development-driven policies.

Speaking during a media briefing at the National Assembly, the senator emphasized that attributing the region’s unrest solely to Kanu oversimplifies a complex reality. He noted that while Kanu has become a symbol for many, the grievances fueling the agitation predate his arrest and appeal to broader issues of marginalization, insecurity, and economic neglect.

He argued that any attempt to silence Kanu—whether by legal or extrajudicial means—would do little to pacify those who feel structurally disadvantaged. Instead, such actions might intensify resentment and deepen the sense of alienation that agitators draw strength from.

The lawmaker urged the Federal Government to embrace meaningful engagement rather than relying on force. According to him, sustainable peace in the region requires addressing complaints about infrastructure deficits, lack of political inclusion, and perceived injustices that residents have voiced for years.

He further advised leaders in the South-East to play a more proactive role in calming tensions, emphasizing community dialogue, youth empowerment, and unity among regional stakeholders.

While acknowledging that criminal elements have infiltrated the agitation, the senator insisted that tackling root causes—rather than targeting figureheads—remains the only credible path to stability.

As the debate over Kanu’s detention continues to dominate national discourse, his remarks serve as a stark reminder that resolving the crisis demands more than punitive measures. For many in the South-East, the agitation is not just about a man—it is about a movement shaped by history, sentiment, and a demand

for fairness.