Seriake Dickson seeks political solution for Nnamdi Kanu’s release, asks Tinubu to begin peace process

Seriake Dickson, senator representing Bayelsa west, has called for a political solution to secure the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who was convicted of terrorism offences.

In a statement on Tuesday, Dickson said such a move would help end violence in the south-east and promote national integration.

The senator said many Nigerians desire a peaceful and united country.

“All Nigerians must condemn violence, especially the type that has occurred in the South East in recent years, as well as the terrorist activities in the northern part,” the statement reads.

“Our sympathy must be for all victims and the losses they have incurred and continue to suffer even to this day.

“As a former police officer and a senior lawyer (former Attorney General), I feel personally touched when security officers are attacked and killed. We condemn violence and lawlessness wherever they occur.”

The former governor of Bayelsa state said the federal government has responded as most nations would when their sovereignty is challenged.

He noted that similar responses across history — from Nelson Mandela to Isaac Adaka Boro — have shown that arrests and convictions do not end political agitations.

Dickson said separatist movements are political and economic in nature and cannot be resolved through legal measures alone.

He cited the Niger Delta peace process initiated by the Yar’Adua/Jonathan administration as an example of effective political intervention.

Dickson praised the decision of the former military head of state Yakubu Gowon to pardon Boro after his conviction, saying the gesture strengthened national unity.

He said President Bola Tinubu should lead a new peace initiative focused on justice, inclusion, and restructuring.

“The President, as a national imperative, should initiate a broad peace process that will address historical imbalances, injustices, and grievances in all parts of the country and lay a foundation for a new Nigeria founded on fairness, inclusion, and justice for all,” he said.

“This is why we have continuously advocated for a restructured Nigeria, and the President—who was one of the leaders of this movement in NADECO and the Alliance for Democracy—is in a better position to make it happen. He will have our fullest support in doing so.”

He pledged support for national efforts to defeat extremist violence and ransom-driven banditry and called on youths in the south-east to remain calm and participate in political efforts aimed at restructuring Nigeria.

Dickson said he has started consultations with legislators across the country to advance a peaceful and inclusive national agenda.

The former governor added that he remains available for any engagement that will help achieve a restructured Nigeria.