(DDM) – Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has appealed for calm across the country following the conviction and sentencing of Nnamdi Kanu on terrorism-related charges by a Federal High Court.
She urged Nigerians to avoid provocative reactions and instead embrace dialogue as the nation navigates the aftermath of the judgment.
DDM gathered that her statement came amid rising anxiety in parts of the South-East, where residents fear that the conviction could trigger unrest similar to past episodes of civil agitation linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra, the movement Kanu leads.
The minister explained that national stability must remain a collective priority.
She warned that emotional outbursts or violent demonstrations would only deepen the country’s divisions.
She insisted that only constructive engagement, lawful protest, and open communication can prevent escalation.
The conviction of Nnamdi Kanu, a central figure in the agitation for Biafran self-determination, has long been considered one of the country’s most sensitive political issues.
His arrest in 2015, subsequent bail in 2017, and later re-arrest in 2021 reignited debates about civil liberties, separatist demands, and the rights of political dissidents.
The latest judgment, which found him guilty of terrorism-related offences, has once again placed national unity under strain.
Many communities in the South-East recall the heavy clashes between security agencies and IPOB supporters in previous years.
They fear that this ruling could spark renewed confrontation unless the government and local leaders take deliberate steps to manage tensions.
Bianca Ojukwu acknowledged these concerns and urged leaders across the region to engage their followers peacefully.
She emphasised that every stakeholder has a responsibility to prevent violence.
She said that the nation cannot afford another cycle of avoidable conflict.
The minister reminded Nigerians that legal processes remain open to the defence team.
She noted that Kanu’s lawyers could pursue an appeal if they believe errors occurred during the trial.
She insisted that respect for judicial processes is essential to upholding democratic norms.
Observers say her intervention reflects the government’s awareness of the fragility of peace in the South-East.
Security agencies have maintained a visible presence in several states since the verdict was delivered.
Authorities fear that protests, if unmanaged, could be hijacked by criminal groups operating under the guise of agitation.
Political analysts argue that Kanu’s case continues to shape national conversations about marginalisation, identity, and governance.
They say the government must balance law enforcement with political engagement to avoid further alienation of communities that feel unheard.
They also warn that excessive force or dismissive statements could worsen the crisis.
The minister’s call for calm, therefore, is seen as part of a broader effort to encourage restraint.
She maintained that dialogue, not confrontation, remains the only sustainable path forward.
Her message underscores the urgent need for inclusive discussions that address grievances honestly.
She insisted that Nigeria must choose peace at every crossroads.
The coming days will likely determine whether the country heeds her appeal or slides into renewed tension.
Many citizens hope that both the government and aggrieved groups will prioritise stability over rhetoric.
