Abuja, Nigeria – Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has raised fresh hopes over the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, October 3, shortly after a private meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, Governor Otti assured that Kanu may soon regain his freedom.
“I can assure you that I am in talks with Mr. President. He is positively inclined towards it, and I believe that very soon, Nnamdi Kanu will be a free man again,” Otti said.
The governor stressed that his long-standing relationship with President Tinubu gives him confidence in the president’s commitment.
“Mr. President and I have known each other for decades. Whatever he decides, he communicates it directly. Having given his word, I believe he will honor it,” he added.
Tinubu’s Message of Peace Through Umahi
President Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, called on citizens of the Southeast to remain peaceful and law-abiding as political efforts continue to resolve Kanu’s case.
“I urge our brothers and sisters in the Southeast to mobilize and stay united. The president has heard your voices, and he is engaging with leaders from the region, including governors, senators, and ministers, to achieve a political solution,” Umahi noted.
He reassured that President Tinubu has brought the Southeast into the center of national issues and urged residents to reciprocate with peace and respect for the law.
Background on Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention
Nnamdi Kanu has been held in DSS custody since June 2021, following his controversial extradition from Kenya. He faces terrorism-related charges and has repeatedly sought medical treatment outside detention, but his requests have been denied by the courts.
Despite growing concerns about his health, his legal team continues to push for his release, while Southeast leaders and traditional rulers have consistently called for a political solution.
Renewed Hopes for Political Resolution
Governor Otti’s assurance, combined with President Tinubu’s signals of willingness, has reignited optimism that a breakthrough may soon be achieved in the long-running case.
Earlier, the federal government opposed Kanu’s transfer to the National Hospital in Abuja, citing doubts over medical reports provided by his private doctors as well as security concerns.
Still, the latest assurances from the Abia governor may mark a turning point in the renewed push for peace and reconciliation in the region.
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