The Sarkin Hausawa of Amawbia, Alhaji Mahmud Sani, has said that Nnamdi Kanu of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has a constitutional right to agitate for self‑determination, provided his actions remain peaceful and within the law.
Sani made the statement while speaking to journalists in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
He emphasised that “There is nothing wrong constitutionally for anyone to agitate for self‑determination. It is, however, left for his fellow Southeasterners to either support him or not.” Sani explained that advocacy alone, without violence, is protected under the Nigerian Constitution and should not attract arbitrary detention.
Sani noted that prosecuting or detaining Kanu solely for his advocacy of self‑determination would violate his fundamental human rights, unless there is evidence of criminal conduct. He urged that the judiciary be allowed to handle Kanu’s case fairly and deliver justice based on the facts presented.
On community security, Sani explained that Hausa leaders in Amawbia have instituted a registration system for all Hausa residents. “Whenever any Hausa person comes here to stay, we ask about where he came from, why he came, and who he intends to stay with… Even if the person is a soldier, police officer, or civil servant posted here, he must identify with us so that we know who is among us,” he said.
He added that this system enables the community to detect and report any suspicious individuals to security agencies promptly, ensuring peace and order. According to Sani, the community remains committed to peaceful co‑existence and mutual understanding among all residents.
Sani concluded that respecting constitutional rights, while maintaining community security, is essential for harmonious living. He called on both government authorities and community leaders to uphold the rule of law and protect fundamental human rights.
