The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has stated that he would pursue dialogue and engagement with agitators, including Nnamdi Kanu, if elected president.
Obi made the remarks while addressing supporters in Washington DC, United States, where he spoke about insecurity, political grievances and the need for a different approach to resolving national challenges.
Questioning Kanu's Detention
The former Anambra State governor questioned the continued detention of Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), arguing that expression of opinions should not automatically result in imprisonment.
"There is no reason for keeping Nnamdi Kanu. As far as I am concerned, there is no reason, no reason whatsoever, for keeping Nnamdi Kanu. You cannot arrest somebody because he was speaking or calling people names, doesn't make sense. Anybody can tell you anything," Obi said.
He added that as a politician, he had also faced criticism but believed such comments did not amount to criminal offences.
Dialogue as Solution to National Issues
According to Obi, political disagreements and criticisms should be addressed through conversation rather than prolonged conflicts.
Obi said his administration would prioritise consultation and engagement with groups expressing grievances, including those involved in agitation.
"I have said it that even the agitators, if I am in government today, I will discuss with them, I will engage them, I will consult them," he said.
The NDC candidate maintained that understanding the reasons behind such movements would help the government find lasting solutions and promote national unity.
Obi Cubana Predicts Release of Nnamdi Kanu
Previously, Legit.ng reported that Nigerian businessman Obi Cubana has spoken on the continued detention and legal situation of Nnamdi Kanu during a recent interview with BBC Igbo. The IPOB leader was sentenced to life imprisonment in November 2025.
