Orji Kalu, senator representing Abia North and former governor of Abia State, has stated that separatist agitations linked to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), have resulted in over 30,000 deaths and significant economic losses in the South-East.
Kalu made the remarks on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics following last week’s federal high court ruling in Abuja, which sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment on multiple terrorism-related charges.
Kalu highlighted that the focus on security casualties has overshadowed the heavy toll on civilians and businesses in the region.
He called for a political solution to address the crisis and urged restraint from political actors and supporters.
“This is not a time for noise-making or fighting; it’s a time for sober reflection,” he said. “Over 30,000 Igbos have been killed, and countless businesses destroyed. This problem needs a holistic, political resolution.”
He also criticized what he described as emotional responses from the Igbo community, urging them to prioritize dialogue.
Kalu shared a personal story about his late mother’s friend, whose rice business was destroyed during the unrest, leaving her bankrupt.
“Let Igbos stop being emotional. We need to settle down, go on our knees, and find a way to secure his [Kanu’s] release. I have been working with the federal government on this issue,” he said.
Kalu defended Justice James Omotosho, who presided over Kanu’s trial, against criticisms of the verdict.
He advised those dissatisfied with the judgment to appeal rather than attack the judge.
“Justice Omotosho only delivered the law. If you are displeased, you go to the appellate court. Insulting the man is not the way,” Kalu stated. He also condemned Kanu’s behavior in court, contrasting it with his own conduct during his corruption trial. “I was sentenced to 12 years, but I never insulted the judge. Justice Omotosho is just a messenger of the court doing his job.”
The court sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment on counts related to terrorism, including inciting violence, issuing threats, and enforcing sit-at-home orders in the South-East.
Additional sentences included 20 years for being part of a banned terrorist organization and five years for the illegal importation of radio communication devices. The court classified these acts as terrorism under Nigerian law.