Abia State Governor Alex Otti has expressed optimism that detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will soon regain his freedom through administrative channels.
The Governor made this known following a visit to Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre over the weekend, where he disclosed that efforts to secure the IPOB leader’s release have been intensified.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Governor Otti held productive discussions with Kanu during the encounter and reassured him that ongoing engagements, which began shortly after the governor assumed office in 2023, are being ramped up.
“The Governor enjoined Kanu to remain calm but strong, assuring that the issue will be resolved administratively and that he, Mazi Kanu, will regain his freedom,” the statement said.
Governor Otti also revealed that the Sultan of Sokoto has shown support for Kanu’s release and the need to reduce tensions surrounding the matter. He recounted a lighthearted moment when the Sultan joked about turbaning Kanu as his subject, a comment that drew loud laughter from the detained separatist leader.
Kanu, who appeared to be in high spirits during the visit, thanked the Governor for his continued solidarity and concern. He noted that he was not surprised by the visit, given Otti’s previous engagements with him.
The IPOB leader also praised Governor Otti’s performance since taking office, comparing his developmental achievements in Abia State to the enduring legacy of the late Dee Sam Mbakwe of the old Imo State.
Kanu emphasized his commitment to good governance and urged the Governor to remain focused on improving the lives of the people.
“Kanu told the Governor that he is only interested in good governance and anything that could better the lot of the people, urging the Governor to continue to serve the people diligently,” the statement noted.
The delegation accompanying Governor Otti included Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, senior Sokoto State government officials, and Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention since his arrest and extradition to Nigeria in 2021. Despite a Court of Appeal ruling in 2022 that ordered his release, the federal government has continued to hold him on treason charges.
