By Oluwatoyin Makinde
A member of the House of Representatives, Obi Aguocha, on Thursday made an emotional appeal to the Federal High Court in Abuja, urging the judge to show compassion toward detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, ahead of his sentencing.
Aguocha, who represents the Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency of Abia State, described Kanu not only as his constituent but someone he has known since childhood. Addressing Justice James Omotosho, the lawmaker said his presence in court was both a personal and constitutional duty.
“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,” he told the court.
The lawmaker narrated that he and Kanu attended primary and secondary school together, stressing that the prolonged legal ordeal had taken a heavy toll on the IPOB leader, who has spent years away from his family.
Aguocha pleaded with the court to “temper justice with mercy,” warning that the final outcome of the case could have significant implications for peace and stability in the South-East and across the country.
“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 further urged the prosecution to consider the broader security challenges confronting the nation, noting that “other actors outside this courtroom are also doing worse.”
Aguocha’s plea comes shortly after the court convicted Kanu on terrorism charges, with sentencing expected to follow.
