Kanu: “When People Break The Law Violently and Commit Crimes, They Need To Be Disciplined” – Akande

Laolu Akande, a veteran journalist and former presidential aide, has emphasized that individuals who commit violent crimes must face legal prosecution rather than be granted political settlements.

Speaking on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily, Akande referenced the ongoing case of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). While acknowledging Kanu’s right to a fair trial, he stressed the importance of upholding legal procedures without compromise.

He strongly opposed addressing criminal offenses through political negotiations, warning that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for lawlessness.

Akande argued that the law should be applied consistently to all offenders, drawing comparisons between Kanu’s case and those of other agitators and criminals across Nigeria.

“I will never endorse a situation where individuals who have violently broken the law and committed serious crimes are allowed to evade justice through political means. Whether it’s Sunday Igboho, bandits in the North-West, or terrorists in the North-East, justice must be served. There is far too much impunity in the system, and allowing political resolutions in such cases only worsens the problem,” he asserted.

He also raised concerns about the judiciary’s handling of Kanu’s case, criticizing the initial recusal of a judge and his later reinstatement by the Chief Judge. Akande maintained that the allegations against Kanu should be thoroughly examined in court rather than dismissed for political reasons.