Igbo leaders from the 19 Northern States and the FCT have urged the Federal Government to see how the prolonged detention and continuous trial of the IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, will be brought to a logical conclusion.

The assertion was made by President-General of the Igbo Northern Leaders, Chief Kenneth Okeugo, who also restated the position on the prolonged detention of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, insisting that his release remains critical to restoring stability in the South-East.

Kenneth Okeugo argued that continued detention has allowed criminal elements to exploit the situation and called for dialogue as a pathway to de-escalation.

According to him, “If we are truly seeking national unity and peace, dialogue and a political solution remain the most viable option.”

He was speaking during the end-of-year meeting of the group held in Gombe over the last weekend.

He also stressed that adequate security along interstate corridors must be prioritised to guarantee safe movement during the upcoming Yuletide period.

They are therefore calling for enhanced security measures on major highways ahead of the Christmas travel season, citing increasing risks faced by travellers along key routes in the South East and other parts of the country during the festive season.

The President-General noted that poor security conditions and recurrent criminal attacks on the highways across the country have heightened fears among travellers.

Kenneth Okeugo urged the Federal Government to ensure deployment of additional personnel to flashpoints, arguing that the level of mobilisation witnessed during the recent Anambra governorship election demonstrates the capacity to protect commuters if the political will is applied.

According to him, “If 45,000 security operatives can be deployed for one election, a fraction of that along the eastern roads will ensure safe travel for our people this Christmas.”

He explained that the meeting, which marked the fourth quarterly gathering of the association, focused on community relations, political participation, and the welfare of Igbo residents in Northern Nigeria.

Kenneth Okeugo further stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence with host communities and the need to support state governments where they reside.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to identify economic opportunities for Igbo traders and industrialists living in the North.

On preparations for the 2027 general elections, he disclosed that the group had mobilised eligible Igbo residents to register as voters, reaffirming their resolve to participate in the political process from their places of residence.

He maintained that voter participation would help strengthen national cohesion and ensure that Igbo interests are represented in the political landscape.

He confirmed that the organisation is engaging with Northern States Governors and relevant authorities ahead of the holiday season, with letters already drafted to key leaders, including the Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum and the Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.

He added that some Southeastern state governments have begun arranging transportation support to ease travel for returning residents. (Tribune)