Otti Urges Calm As He Pushes For Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

Abia State Governor Alex Otti says last week’s judgement against Nnamdi Kanu is not the final chapter in the legal and political battle surrounding the IPOB leader.

He assured Abians that he has already stepped up efforts to secure Kanu’s release through dialogue with the Federal Government.

The governor reacted to Thursday’s verdict in Abuja, where Kanu was convicted on terrorism-related charges and handed a life sentence. Otti said the news has left many residents heartbroken, noting that the ruling has created deep worry across Abia and other parts of the South-East.

He recalled the build-up to the crisis, including the 2017 military raid on Kanu’s family home in Umuahia, which left casualties and destruction. Otti said he condemned the operation at the time and pushed for dialogue instead of force, stressing that the early mishandling of the IPOB matter contributed to the unrest seen today.

Otti explained that he has been in talks with top federal officials since December 2023 on an alternative resolution plan that was expected to take effect once the court concluded its work. He said he discussed the strategy directly with Kanu during a visit to him in DSS custody earlier this year.

With the judgement now delivered, Otti believes the agreed path of negotiation can move forward. He encouraged Kanu to pursue his right to appeal while he continues the diplomatic push for a political resolution.

The governor appealed for calm across the state, urging residents to avoid actions that could threaten ongoing engagements with the Federal Government. He said peace in the South-East remains a priority and warned politicians against exploiting Kanu’s situation for personal gain.

Otti reaffirmed his commitment to seeking a solution through dialogue, insisting that the matter can be resolved without further tension and that freedom for Kanu is attainable through sustained engagement.