A civic group under the aegis of the Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his recent call for the unconditional release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, saying the demand could undermine confidence in the rule of law and weaken national cohesion.
The group made its position known in a statement issued on Thursday by its Director of Strategic Communication, Dr. Tunji Bamidele, who described Atiku’s comment as inconsistent with his long-standing advocacy for justice and national unity.
DWI said it was “deeply concerned” that the former vice president’s call might be misinterpreted as encouraging disregard for legal processes and the judiciary’s independence.
“Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing serious charges, including terrorism and treasonable felony, which involve allegations of incitement to violence and the destruction of public and private property. These are matters before the court, and the legal process should be allowed to run its course,” the statement read.
The group added that urging the unconditional release of a defendant still undergoing trial could send the wrong message about accountability and the rule of law.
“By calling for Kanu’s unconditional release, there is a risk of undermining the judicial process and the efforts of those working to maintain peace and security,” DWI said.
It urged Atiku to reconsider his stance in the interest of national unity, justice, and due process, noting that leaders must be careful not to politicise ongoing judicial matters or appear to side with actions capable of threatening the country’s stability.
