Chief Edwin Clark, a revered figure among the Ijaw and a prominent voice in Nigerian politics, has recently articulated a compelling plea for the reintegration of the Igbo people into the country’s political mainstream. In a bold move, he has also reiterated his call for the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu. This letter marks the second such communication within a month, underscoring the urgency and depth of Clark’s concerns.
Clark, known for his unwavering commitment to justice and unity in Nigeria, believes that embracing the Igbo community within the political fold is not just a matter of fairness but a crucial step towards addressing the pressing security and economic challenges plaguing the South East geopolitical zone. His advocacy resonates with those who seek a cohesive and inclusive Nigeria, where every ethnic group feels valued and represented.
Meanwhile, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), a paramount socio-cultural organization representing the Niger Delta region, has voiced profound reservations over the recent removal of Dr. Solomon Arase from his esteemed position as chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC). In a statement issued by Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, PANDEF condemns what it perceives as an unjust dismissal of Arase, a former Inspector General of Police.
The heart of PANDEF’s objection lies in its interpretation of the Police Service Commission Act of 2002, particularly Section 3, subsection (1)a, which stipulates a fixed term of four years for commission members unless specific grounds for removal, outlined in Section 4, are met. These grounds include bankruptcy, criminal convictions, incapacity, or serious misconduct. PANDEF contends that Arase’s removal does not align with these statutory provisions, raising serious questions about the procedural fairness and justification behind Tinubu’s decision.
Clark said: “I have never supported the activities of IPOB under the leadership of Nnamdi Kanu, but today, Nigeria, a broken country where many groups and nativities have cried foul to the way Nigeria had been going since 1999 because of the military constitution imposed on Nigerians by the military.
“Today, our economy is failing, our democracy is failing, our education and health institutions are collapsing, the youths are jobless and some people are treated as second class citizens while a few enjoy the fruit of the so-called democracy we are passing through.
“If we allow the violence and insecurity in the South-East to continue, the consequences will be very unpleasant to all Nigerians.
“It was because of this, that I called on President Muhammadu Buhari to accept the Court of Appeal Judgement on Nnamdi Kanu.
“Apart from demanding for the restructuring of Nigeria, the political freedom of Nnamdi Kanu will no doubt complete the reconciliation of Nigeria and bring an end to the needless Monday sit-at-home order, which has disturbed businesses and civil activities in the South-East.
“The short-changing of the Igbos of the South-East over the years is the reason why IPOB has fashioned a place for itself in the hearts and minds of the young people in the southeast with its demand for self-determination.
“I have physically seen these IPOB boys in action, at the Ekwueme Square in Awka, Anambra State, when I attended a meeting of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum there.
“It is indeed a movement of youths who are justifiably angry with the way and manner the affairs of the country are being conducted and particularly the marginalization of the Igbos but are misguided.
“None of these youths witnessed the civil war and are, definitely, not abreast with the history of the war and its full ramifications.
“I advise, therefore, that rather than the use of military force which has already proved counter-productive, they should be carefully treated with the “carrot and stick approach”, in the interest of the peace, stability and progress of Nigeria as a whole and the South East zone in particular.”
In their statement, PANDEF presses Tinubu to provide transparent and unequivocal reasons for Arase’s abrupt dismissal, emphasizing that such actions undermine the principles of justice and equity that should govern public office. Their stance underscores a broader concern within Nigeria’s civil society about the arbitrary exercise of power and the need for accountable governance.
“PANDEF views Arase’s removal as unwarranted and an unnecessary provocation that reflects negatively on Tinubu’s administration, indicating a lack of regard for the nation’s laws that Mr. President swore to uphold and protect.
“This singular act further portrays this administration as one that does not prioritize competence, integrity, and efficiency; sacrificing merit on the altar of favoritism.
“The question arises as to why any serious government would dismiss a personality like Solomon Arase, who had initiated positive reforms and improvements at the commission, and given his meritorious track record as a diligent police officer, who rose through the ranks to become the 18th Inspector General of Police of the Nigeria Police Force, and retired with dignity.
“Solomon Arase, a former Inspector General and a native of Edo State in the South-South region of Nigeria, was appointed as the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) in January 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Solomon Arase’s tenure as Chairman of the Police Service Commission lasted only about 16 months of the four-year term.”
The removal of Dr. Solomon Arase, a respected figure in law enforcement circles, has stirred significant disquiet among those who value institutional integrity and adherence to legal frameworks. His tenure as chairman of the Police Service Commission was marked by efforts to uphold professionalism and fairness within the police force, making his dismissal all the more contentious. PANDEF’s vocal opposition reflects a commitment to safeguarding the rule of law and resisting any actions that could erode public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
As these issues unfold, Chief Edwin Clark and PANDEF continue to advocate vigorously for justice and inclusivity in Nigeria. Their efforts underscore the ongoing struggle to reconcile ethnic diversity with national unity, and to ensure that governance reflects the aspirations of all Nigerians, regardless of background or affiliation. In a time of heightened tensions and socio-political challenges, voices like Clark’s and organizations like PANDEF serve as beacons of hope, calling for dialogue, respect for the rule of law, and a commitment to a future where every citizen can contribute to and benefit from Nigeria’s progress.
