Settle Kanu and Others Through ADR – SAN
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mohammed Ndarani, has urged President Bola Tinubu to adopt Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in handling matters involving Nnamdi Kanu and other agitators, emphasizing that arbitration could pave the way for lasting peace and national unity.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Ndarani, who is also the Grand Patron of the One Nation for Asiwaju Support Group, argued that litigation might not be the most effective route for resolving sensitive political cases.
“In my opinion, court may not be the solution to this matter if peace must reign in the nation. The President should consider ADR options like arbitration, conciliation, and mediation,” he said.
He pointed to constitutional provisions, including Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act and Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which allow for alternative mechanisms in both civil and criminal matters.
Citing the earlier withdrawal of charges against Revolution Now leader Omoyele Sowore and Miyetti Allah leader Bello Badejo, Ndarani said such steps should be replicated in other high-profile cases to promote unity.
“These types of cases evoke deep sentiments. Resolving them early can begin the healing process and reduce tensions,” he added.
The SAN noted that many Nigerians avoid litigation due to prolonged delays in the judicial system and said arbitration would also help to decongest the courts.
He advised the president to look inward and engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve agitations that have led to bloodshed and unrest in parts of the country, especially the South East and Middle Belt regions.
“Arbitration can bring peace to the East and end the killings in the Middle Belt,” Ndarani stressed.
He called on Nigerians to be patient with President Tinubu, noting that he inherited a broken system and faces the challenge of rebuilding.
“Only a few elites place personal interest above national peace. The president must avoid such influences and prioritize mechanisms that unite the country,” he said.
Ndarani concluded by urging Tinubu to guard against “little foxes that spoil the vine” while striving to hold the country together as one.
