The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to grant a presidential pardon to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, describing his release as a step towards strengthening national unity.

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The monarch made the appeal in a statement issued by his Press Secretary, Ibrahim Alli, stressing that Kanu’s release would help address lingering feelings of marginalisation among the Igbo and promote their fuller integration into Nigeria’s national affairs. Oba Akanbi also commended President Tinubu for what he described as an inclusive administration without tribal discrimination.

According to the monarch, the wounds and frustrations arising from the Nigerian Civil War remain difficult issues for many Igbos to overcome. He argued that granting Kanu a presidential pardon would demonstrate a commitment to healing those historical wounds and reintegrating communities affected by the conflict. He urged that the pardon be viewed as an honour to the Igbo people rather than simply a favour to an individual.

“Nnamdi Kanu only needs to be cautioned and counselled before he can be released because of his temperament. I am hopeful he will turn a new leaf and be a counsellor to his tribesmen, toeing the line of violence,” Oba Akanbi said.

The monarch clarified that his appeal was not a call for protest but a plea for reconciliation and peaceful coexistence. He urged Nigerians to move beyond ethnic divisions and historical grievances, saying there must be greater love and understanding among the country’s various communities.

“Oluwo is not calling people for protest but making a holistic appeal to President Tinubu to honour the tribe by releasing Nnamdi Kanu. I express hope that the step, if respected, will further cement the unity and unison of Nigeria as a united nation,” he said.