‘I Plead For Mercy’ – Lawmaker Charges Judge Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Judgment

A member of the House of Representatives, Obi Aguocha , on Thursday made a passionate appeal before the Federal High Court in Abuja, urging Justice James Omotosho to show mercy to the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, as the court prepared to deliver his sentence.

Aguocha, who represents the Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency of Abia State, stood before the court to identify himself and make what he described as a personal plea on behalf of his “brother, friend, and constituent.”

Addressing the court, the lawmaker introduced himself by saying, “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.”

Aguocha noted that he and Kanu attended the same primary and secondary schools, adding that although he was senior to him, the shared history strengthened his resolve to speak on Kanu’s behalf.

The lawmaker pleaded with the court to consider the implications of the judgment on peace and stability in the South-East and Nigeria at large.

He said, “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.”

Aguocha further urged the prosecution and the court to situate Kanu’s actions within the broader national insecurity landscape, arguing that “other actors outside this courtroom are also doing worse.”

Aguocha reminded the court that Kanu’s trial had stretched nearly a decade and that the IPOB leader, now in his mid-50s, had been deprived of family life and personal freedom for several years.

“I plead for the lord to show mercy and temper justice with mercy. I am a friend of the court, and I appreciate the opportunity to address you,” he added.

He thanked Justice Omotosho for permitting him to make the humanitarian appeal.

Shortly after Aguocha’s plea, Justice Omotosho convicted Nnamdi Kanu on all seven terrorism-related counts filed against him by the Federal Government.

The judge then stood down proceedings and directed those wishing to witness the sentencing to return to court at 10 minutes to 4 pm, when the sentencing phase is scheduled to resume.

© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]

Source: Naijanews.com | Read the Full Story…