Archbishop faults Kanu’s life sentence, says ruling undermines justice system

The Methodist Archbishop of Okigwe Archdiocese, Imo State, Most Rev. Livinus Biereonwu Onuagha, has criticised the life imprisonment handed to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, describing the verdict as a profound miscarriage of justice.

Reacting to the judgment delivered by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, Archbishop Onuagha said the ruling has deepened doubts about the credibility of Nigeria’s governance and judicial processes.

He warned that the judgment has further heightened apprehension over the country’s stability and unity, adding that the growing national tension underscores the need for sincere dialogue on Nigeria’s future.

The cleric advised political leaders in the South-East to meaningfully engage with their constituents and address longstanding grievances.

“Igbo politicians must understand the realities facing the region and respond with sincerity,” he said.

Archbishop Onuagha also questioned the consistency of the Federal Government’s justice and security policies. He wondered why persons involved in violent crimes are being rehabilitated, while Kanu, whom he described as a non-violent agitator, received the maximum sentence.

“When individuals who took up arms are reintegrated into society, but someone not linked to violence is jailed for life, many Nigerians naturally question the fairness of the system,” he said.

He called on the Federal Government to uphold justice, embrace dialogue, and ensure equitable treatment of all citizens, insisting that sustainable peace can only be achieved when every Nigerian feels protected under the law.