Senator Henry Seriake Dickson has urged President Bola Tinubu to initiate a broad political process that could pave the way for the release of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, as part of efforts to end violence and rebuild trust in the South East.
In a statement on Tuesday, the former Governor of Bayelsa State said the simmering agitation in the region, and similar unrest in other parts of the country, cannot be resolved through legal processes alone, stressing that only a sincere political approach will address the underlying grievances.
Dickson said he was joining other well-meaning Nigerians in calling for a solution that restores calm, promotes inclusion and ensures that all parts of the country feel a sense of belonging.
“This sentiment is shared by all who want a united, peaceful and just nation,” he said.
While condemning attacks on civilians and security personnel across the country, he reflected on his experiences as a former police officer and Attorney-General.
He said violence in the South East and terrorist attacks in the North had caused deep suffering and should be condemned by all.
According to him, history shows that state responses, whether through arrest, trial or imprisonment, do not by themselves extinguish separatist or political agitations.
He cited the cases of Nelson Mandela, Isaac Adaka Boro and other global figures, arguing that sustainable peace was achieved only when leaders adopted political solutions based on justice and reconciliation.
Dickson also pointed to the Yar’Adua administration’s amnesty programme for the Niger Delta, which he credited with stabilising the region and supporting national economic recovery.
He recalled that even during the civil war era, General Yakubu Gowon demonstrated what he described as “leadership and broad-mindedness” when he granted Boro and his comrades pardon and brought them into national service.
The senator said President Tinubu, given his history of advocating for restructuring under NADECO and the Alliance for Democracy, is well positioned to lead a new national dialogue that confronts longstanding grievances.
He said such a process should address historical injustices and lay the groundwork for a fairer and more united Nigeria.
Dickson further advised the government to ensure Kanu’s safety while legal and political processes continue.
He warned that with security forces already overstretched, the country must avoid “opening new battlefronts” that could distract from the fight against terrorism and banditry.
The senator called on South East youths to remain calm and engage constructively in efforts aimed at achieving a restructured Nigeria.
He said, as Chairman of the South-South Senate Caucus, he had begun reaching out to colleagues across regions to build consensus around a national peace initiative.
“I am available for any engagement that can lead to a Nigeria that works for all,” he said.
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