Abubakar Malami, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) has said that the federal government has not ruled out a political solution in resolving cases involving self-determination agitators Sunday Adeyemo (a.k.a. Sunday Igboho) and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu.
Speaking in an interview on Arise TV, Malami who admitted that no such proposal was before the Federal Government, said it will be considered if proposed by anybody or group.
The AGF stated that though these individuals’ actions have “criminal undertones”, the federal government will not strike out other means of resolving the cases.
He said;
“Well, as far as securities situation is concerned, as far as governance is concerned, and administration, you cannot rule out all possibilities.
“But, crime is a crime. When there are criminal under tones associated with certain conduct, you cannot take away the right of the government to take steps with particular regard to ensuring that the people that are in one way or the other operating in breach are brought to book.”
Malami also noted that the issue of pardon was not limited to repentant Boko Haram members, but could be extended to deserving cases.
He added;
“Generally speaking, that is why I am telling you that no possibility is ruled out. But then, there has to be an approach for the government to consider.
“So, I cannot be pre-emptive in telling you clearly and outrightly that reconciliation perhaps, is being considered without an approach to be made.
“It is the approach to be made. If at all any is made, that we will look into for the purpose of looking at its weight, the authenticity of it, the good fate associated with it, and then perhaps bring about the considerable factors related to the negotiations or otherwise.
“So, it is not a conclusion that one can outright make without juxtaposing associated facts relating to the reconciliation.
“You cannot operate a conciliatory approach in the blues. It is never one sided. There has to be an approach and then a counter concentration.
“So, no approach in that respect is on the table for consideration yet. So, we will cross the bridge when eventually we get to that; when a perhaps a type of request is made, we will consider it.”
