The recent life sentence imposed by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB) leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has been discussed by Abia State Governor Alex Otti.
Governor Otti revealed that he has already put in motion a comprehensive plan aimed at securing Kanu’s release. In a statement released on Saturday, he said the process had begun well before Kanu’s conviction and would continue until the objective is achieved.
He noted that during previous discussions in Abuja, “some agreements” were reached with “the highest authorities,” and Kanu himself had been briefed during a visit to the Department of State Services (DSS) earlier this year.
Otti criticized the federal government’s initial handling of IPOB’s concerns, stating that the lack of a careful approach exacerbated the situation. He cautioned that allowing tensions to persist could escalate into a far more serious problem in the future.
The governor recalled that as far back as 2017, following the military raid on Kanu’s family home in Afaraukwu, he had advised that dialogue, rather than force, was the best way to prevent further escalation.
He appealed to residents of Abia and the wider South East to remain calm in the wake of the court’s judgment. He urged the public to avoid provocative statements or actions that could interfere with ongoing diplomatic engagements with the federal government.
Otti expressed optimism that a resolution is within reach. He said:
“While Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has the right to appeal his conviction, I want to assure you that I am actively working on the agreed strategy to secure his release. I also call on politicians who may want to exploit this situation for political gain to set aside such intentions and join us in pursuing his freedom.
“I welcome collaboration with any Nigerians committed to resolving this issue through diplomacy and dialogue with the federal government, which, though not responsible for creating the problem, has the capacity to address it responsibly and compassionately.
“I recognize that this verdict has caused widespread shock and sorrow in Abia and beyond. Leadership, I believe, requires emotional intelligence, restraint, and tolerance rather than force. The mishandling of the IPOB issue at the early stages has contributed to today’s situation, and we cannot allow it to escalate further.
“I have been personally engaging federal authorities on alternative resolution strategies since December 22, 2023, and while some agreements were delayed due to the prolonged trial, I am confident that these measures will now be implemented. Kanu was informed of this approach during my earlier visit to him in DSS custody.
I appeal to our people to remain calm, avoid statements or actions that could provoke fear or unrest, and trust that the assurances we have received point toward a positive resolution. My commitment to resolving this issue with wisdom, diplomacy, and dialogue remains unwavering, with the aim of restoring genuine peace to the South East.
