Falana

Human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), has called for the detention of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to be resolved through political dialogue rather than courtroom litigation.

Speaking in Umuahia, Abia State capital, during a courtesy visit to Governor Alex Otti, Falana described Kanu’s case as a political issue that should be handled outside the judiciary.

“I believe it is a matter that should be sorted out outside the courtroom. For me, it’s a political case. If governments can negotiate with bandits or other criminal elements, there’s no basis for not resolving this politically,” he stated.

Falana commended Governor Otti for his developmental strides in Abia State, noting visible improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare since his assumption of office. He expressed confidence in Otti’s leadership, urging him not to disappoint the people.

“I’ve seen evidence of physical development good roads, schools, and hospitals. The people are speaking positively about the government. The governor must continue to ensure governance remains people-focused,” Falana added.

On judicial reforms, the senior lawyer lamented the limited access to justice for ordinary Nigerians, asserting that the judiciary currently serves mainly politicians and the elite.

“The judiciary is the last hope of the elite, not the common man,” he said. “To make justice accessible, governments must promote alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and reform customary courts, where most citizens resolve conflicts daily.”

Falana emphasized that empowering traditional rulers and community institutions in dispute resolution would help restore public confidence in justice and ensure inclusive governance.