By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The leadership of the Center For Civil and Post Traumatic Rehabilitation has thrown its weight behind the call by an apex Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere for the release of the IPOB Leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

This was contained on a statement signed the Center Director, Nagari Jarma and made available to News Express on Friday.

The group observed that in the realm of political philosophy, the concept of justice is intricately linked with the notion of freedom.

It cited the words of a renowned philosopher, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, which says, ?Man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains", saying that the detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of freedom and the imperative of justice.

The group noted that since President Bola Armed assumed office, he has taken significant strides in relaxing tensions, building confidence, and resolving conflicts across the nation.

According to the group, the President?s effort have positively impacted the socio-political discourse in Nigeria.

While commending Tinubu for his visionary leadership, it said: ?The issue of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu?s detention has assumed national dimensions and requires urgent attention. We believe that his release would be a significant confidence-building measure, particularly in the South East geopolitical region and among the NDIGBO in Diaspora.

?Empirical studies have shown that Mazi Kanu?s release would go a long way in resolving the Sit-At-Home scenario in the South Eastern States, which has resulted in significant economic losses and human suffering.

?This phenomenon is reminiscent of the concept of ?structural violence,? coined by the Norwegian sociologist, Johan Galtung. Structural violence refers to the ways in which societal structures and institutions perpetuate harm and inequality. In this context, Mazi Kanu?s detention serves as a symbol of structural violence, perpetuating harm and inequality against the Igbo people.

?The AFENIFERE, with its rich history of promoting democracy and human rights, has consistently advocated for Mazi Kanu?s release. We stand in solidarity with them and urge President Tinubu, GCFR to give serious consideration to their recommendations.

?As the Leadership Center for Civil and Post Trauma Rehabilitation, we are committed to promoting peace, justice, and human rights in Nigeria. We believe that Mazi Kanu?s release would be a significant step towards achieving these goals and promoting national unity.?

The group further acknowledged the significant strides made by Tinubu in addressing the nation?s challenges, including the resolution of the Petroleum Subsidy issue and the stabilization of the security situation noting that the efforts have greatly enhanced the operations of the security apparatuses and placed them at the service of all Nigerians.

It added: "In light of these developments, we urge the Nigerian government to take immediate action to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and to address the underlying issues that have led to his detention. We also call on all Nigerians to support this call for his release and to work towards promoting peace, justice, and human rights in our nation.

?As we navigate the complexities of our national journey, we must remain cognizant of the wisdom of the ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle, who posited, ?We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.? Let us strive for excellence in our pursuit of justice, peace, and human rights.?