In a significant political development, the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has personally visited the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Sokoto Correctional Centre. The visit, which took place on Sunday, November 30, 2025, has generated widespread public interest following the emergence of new photos and videos from the meeting.
Governor's Assurance and Kanu's Response
During the high-level visit, Governor Otti urged Nnamdi Kanu to remain strong and calm. The governor revealed that the diplomatic and administrative engagements he initiated over two years ago concerning Kanu's case have now been "intensified" in recent months.
"I encourage you to remain calm but strong. The engagements I started over two years ago, which you are already aware of, have been intensified despite everything that has happened. This issue will be resolved administratively, and you will regain your freedom," Otti told the IPOB leader, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma.
In response, Nnamdi Kanu, who appeared to be in high spirits throughout the encounter, expressed his gratitude to Governor Otti for his consistent show of concern. Kanu praised the governor's development strides in Abia State, comparing his leadership to the legacy of the late Dee Sam Mbakwe.
"I am not surprised you came so quickly. You did the same in the past. I am very proud of your giant strides in Abia. The feedback from home shows what you are doing," Kanu stated. He emphasized that his primary interest remains "good governance and anything that could better the lot of the people" and offered prayers for God's guidance for the Abia State administration.
Sultan of Sokoto Backs Dialogue, Jokes About Turbanning
A notable revelation from the visit was the position of the Sultan of Sokoto. Governor Otti expressed satisfaction that the revered traditional leader shares his stance on the need to de-escalate tensions and pursue peaceful resolution through dialogue.
In a lighter moment during their discussions, the Sultan reportedly joked that Nnamdi Kanu had become his subject and that he intended to turban him. This remark was said to have made the detained IPOB leader burst into laughter, highlighting a moment of cordiality amidst the serious political context.
High-Profile Delegation and Legal Context
Governor Alex Otti was accompanied by a senior delegation that included the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Abia State, Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN; his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma; and several top officials from the Sokoto State government, including commissioners and advisers.
Also present during the visit was Kanu's younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu. The meeting represents one of the highest-profile visits the IPOB leader has received since his detention.
This visit comes against the backdrop of recent legal developments concerning Nnamdi Kanu. Previously, the Federal High Court in Abuja struck out a N50 billion lawsuit filed by Kanu against the federal government. Presiding judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo, issued the ruling on Thursday, November 27, citing lack of diligent prosecution after noting repeated non-appearance by the parties involved.
The visit by Governor Otti underscores the ongoing political and administrative efforts surrounding one of Nigeria's most sensitive detention cases, potentially signaling a new phase in the quest for a resolution.
