“Let Igbos Stop Being Emotional” — Orji Kalu on Nnamdi Kanu’s Conviction

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, has urged Igbos to avoid emotional reactions following the life sentence handed to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by a federal high court in Abuja last week. Kalu highlighted that separatist activities associated with Kanu have claimed over 30,000 lives and destroyed livelihoods across the south-east, noting that civilian losses have often been overlooked in public discussions.

Speaking on Channels Television’s *Sunday Politics*, Kalu called for a political resolution to the crisis rather than escalating tensions. He recalled that many businesses were destroyed during the violence, including a rice shop owned by a friend of his late mother, and stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to address the conflict’s impact on the region.

Kalu also defended Justice James Omotosho, who presided over Kanu’s trial, describing criticisms of the verdict as misplaced and emphasizing that any disagreement should be addressed through the appellate court rather than insults. He contrasted Kanu’s conduct in court with his own during his corruption trial, noting the importance of maintaining respect for judicial processes.

The court sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment on multiple counts, 20 years for involvement with a banned terrorist organization, and five years for the illegal importation of a radio communication device. The sentences did not include monetary penalties, with the court ruling that Kanu’s threats and the enforcement of sit-at-home orders in the south-east constituted terrorist acts under Nigerian law.

Kalu stressed that resolving the crisis requires sober reflection and dialogue with the federal government, urging Igbos to prioritize settlement over emotional reactions.