Senator Umeh to Tinubu: Heed calls for dialogue to prevent national tensions

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

ONITSHA — Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider political dialogue as part of efforts to address concerns arising from the conviction of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Speaking with journalists in a telephone interview, Senator Umeh called for a reconciliation process aimed at promoting peace, noting that Kanu’s case continues to generate strong emotions among many people in the South-East.

Umeh said the country is facing deep divisions and stressed the need for national healing through constructive engagement. He appealed to the Federal Government to explore political solutions, including possible discussions with various stakeholders across the South-East and beyond.

According to the senator, “Nigeria is currently experiencing significant tensions. This is a period that calls for dialogue, reconciliation, and a review of approaches to issues that have lingered for many years.”

He noted that lawmakers from the South-East had on several occasions raised concerns about regional grievances during Senate sessions. He also referenced past engagements by South-East senators with the National Security Adviser and the Attorney-General of the Federation on matters relating to agitation in the region.

Umeh recalled past episodes of civil unrest linked to complaints of marginalization, saying such issues require comprehensive dialogue. He added that some previous administrations also grappled with similar concerns and urged a fresh approach to prevent escalation.

The senator shared his personal experiences during earlier periods of tension in the region, including interactions with security agencies regarding public commentary he made calling for peaceful engagement.

Umeh emphasized that genuine peacebuilding requires listening to aggrieved groups and creating channels for dialogue. He cited previous national experiences where reconciliation efforts helped reduce conflict, noting that inclusive discussions could help address ongoing concerns in the South-East.

He appealed to President Tinubu to carefully review the situation and consider steps that could support long-term peace and unity.

“All eyes are now on the President to chart a course that promotes national cohesion,” Umeh said, adding that constructive engagement would help build trust and stability across the country.

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