•Makes case for a restructured Nigeria

Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West, has called for a political solution to the ongoing legal proceedings involving Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a press statement, released on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Dickson emphasised the need for a process that fosters peace, normalcy, and integration in the South East region.

Dickson joined a growing chorus of voices advocating for a non-judicial approach, drawing parallels with historical examples such as Nelson Mandela and Isaac Adaka Boro, whose agitations were ultimately resolved through political dialogue and concessions.

"Legal processes do not address separatist agitations that are political and economic in nature," Senator Dickson stated.

"Historically, arrests, trials, convictions, and sentencing—even executions—do not solve these kinds of agitations.

"After the legal processes, what must follow is a sincere and holistic political solution that will create public confidence and sustain patriotism by all."

The Senator highlighted the success of the Niger Delta Amnesty Programme initiated by the Yar'Adua/Jonathan administration as a model for resolving conflict through engagement and addressing underlying grievances.

He also referenced the example of General Gowon, who pardoned Isaac Adaka Boro and integrated him into the federal forces, demonstrating leadership and vision in a time of crisis.

Dickson urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt a statesmanlike approach and initiate a peace process aimed at persuading Nnamdi Kanu to renounce violence and addressing historical imbalances, injustices, and grievances across the country.

He stressed the need for a "new Nigeria founded on fairness, inclusion and justice for all."

"At this time, it is the duty and responsibility of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu... to begin a peace process that will get Nnamdi Kanu and the tendency he represents in the South East to renounce violence as a tool for pursuing their separatist agenda," Dickson said.

The Senator, a former police officer and Attorney General, condemned the violence in the South East and terrorist activities in the North, expressing sympathy for all victims.

He also called for the government and security agencies to ensure the safety and humane treatment of Nnamdi Kanu while legal and political processes are underway.

Dickson further emphasised the need to avoid opening new "battlefronts" in light of the prevailing security challenges facing the nation, particularly the fight against terrorism and banditry in the North.

He pledged his full support to President Tinubu in mobilising resources to combat these threats.

Senator Dickson called on the people of the South East, particularly the youth, to remain calm and participate in political processes aimed at achieving a restructured Nigeria.

As Chairman of the South-South Senate Caucus, he has already begun reaching out to colleagues across the nation to work towards this goal.

"I am available for any engagement that can lead to a restructured Nigeria that will work for all," he emphasised.

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