Nigerian Coalition Calls on President Tinubu to Implement Comprehensive Amnesty and Empowerment Initiative for IPOB/ESN Members
By Yahaya Zakka, Minna
A coalition of peace advocates and socio-economic analysts, Hope Nigeria Movement (HNM), has formally appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to promptly initiate a strategic Amnesty and Empowerment Program for members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in the Southeast geopolitical zone.
This appeal, outlined in a press release shared with the media in Abuja by Alfa Mohammed Esq., the Convener of Hope Nigeria Movement and #EndSouthEastViolence Advocates, responds to the recent conviction and sentencing of IPOB’s founder. The ESN, led by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and his deputy, Simon Ekpa, in Nigeria and Finland respectively, has contributed to easing tensions in the region, creating a crucial opportunity for a political resolution to the insecurity that has persisted for approximately 15 years.
The coalition has developed a strategic Multi-Level Amnesty Program titled “Path to Permanent Peace in the South East,” which it plans to present to President Tinubu shortly.
This comprehensive proposal aims to address both security challenges and the root causes of agitation among southeastern Nigerians. It includes four phases: Deradicalization, Disarmament, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (DDRR), modeled after successful global peace initiatives, including the Niger Delta Amnesty Program.
The coalition underscores that successful implementation of this program could lead to a significant transformation, benefiting the Southeast region and bolstering Nigeria’s stability and economic development.
Potential benefits include economic revival and the immediate cessation of the disruptive sit-at-home orders, allowing local entrepreneurial activities to flourish again. It could also attract considerable local and foreign investments currently hindered by insecurity.
Furthermore, eradicating the sources of violence is expected to restore public confidence in governance and law enforcement by eliminating fear.
The program’s human capital development component aims to convert thousands of youths from armed combatants into skilled, employable citizens and entrepreneurs, addressing unemployment and marginalization that contribute to unrest.
The advocates believe that resolving the Southeast crisis will enhance Nigeria’s global reputation, foster international partnerships, and attract foreign direct investment.
The coalition urges President Tinubu to seize this pivotal opportunity to demonstrate leadership by approving and swiftly implementing this comprehensive DDRR program.
