Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has publicly announced that he has activated a comprehensive strategy to secure the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Political Roadmap for Kanu's Freedom
The Labour Party governor revealed that the plan to secure Kanu's freedom had been in development since the early stages of the legal proceedings. In a statement issued on Saturday, November 22, 2025, Governor Otti confirmed he would continue working on the agreed strategy until the objective is achieved.
According to the governor's disclosure, he has maintained direct communication with Kanu during his detention. Otti visited the IPOB leader in prison and provided updates on high-level engagements with the highest authorities in Nigeria as part of a carefully crafted political roadmap.
Warning Against Political Exploitation
Governor Otti issued a strong caution to politicians who might attempt to exploit Kanu's current situation for personal gain. He emphasized that such actions could undermine the delicate diplomatic efforts currently underway.
"May I caution politicians who have positioned themselves to play petty and dirty politics with the travails of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to jettison the idea, and rather work with us to secure his freedom?" Otti stated in his official communication.
The governor attributed the current crisis to poor management of the IPOB issue during its initial stages, warning that allowing the situation to linger could create a bigger monstrous situation for the region and the country at large.
Regional Calm and Diplomatic Efforts
Governor Otti made a direct appeal to residents of Abia State and the broader South-East region to maintain peace and avoid statements that might jeopardize the sensitive diplomatic engagements.
This development comes after Justice James Omotosho sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment on seven-count terrorism charges. While acknowledging Kanu's right to appeal the conviction, Governor Otti expressed confidence in the political approach he has initiated.
The governor's statement represents the most significant political intervention in the Kanu case since the controversial court ruling, highlighting the ongoing tension between legal proceedings and political solutions in handling the IPOB matter.
