In a candid interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former Governor of Abia State and current representative of Abia North Senatorial District, emphasized the need to respect judicial processes in the ongoing terrorism trial of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The trial, adjourned to October 16 due to the Nigerian Medical Association’s (NMA) failure to submit a report on Kanu’s health, has sparked renewed calls for his release on medical grounds. During the interview hosted by Shaka Momodu, Kalu navigated questions cautiously, underscoring his deference to the court.

“This case is before a court of competent jurisdiction, and I’m not sure it’s appropriate for me to openly share my opinion without knowing the judge’s decision,” Kalu said. He highlighted ongoing “backdoor diplomacy,” adding, “All of us are doing backchannel diplomacy as much as we can because of the utmost respect I have for the judiciary. I cannot make the judge look foolish by discussing his case on television.”

Kalu, a close ally of President Bola Tinubu, revealed he had discussed the matter “many times” with the president but declined to disclose details, calling it a “privilege.” He expressed optimism for a resolution, stating, “The president knows we have been talking about how best to resolve this issue, and I’m confident it will be resolved very soon.”

Stressing procedural propriety, Kalu urged that any discontinuation of the case be handled through official channels. “The right process is through the Attorney General of the Federation, not by people shouting on television or in their homes,” he said. “We should respect Justice Omotosho, and Nigerians must respect the decisions of our courts.”

When asked if Kanu’s release could foster lasting peace in the Southeast, Kalu said it could “bring everybody together equally,” but reiterated he could not preempt the court. “My decision is I cannot decide for the court now, but I have spoken to the president, and some legal experts have my opinion. There is a need to work out a solution between the federal government and the family,” he said.

Later, Kalu reiterated his stance against public commentary on active cases, describing it as undermining the law. “You have tried to drag me into talking about Justice Omotosho’s court. I told you no because it’s not fair. I am following the law,” he said.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions, including a recent House of Representatives debate calling for Kanu’s medical release. Justice Omotosho had earlier ordered the NMA to form a board of medical experts to assess Kanu’s health and determine if he requires transfer to a private ward at the National Hospital.

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