Governor Alex Otti of Abia State says the issues surrounding the conviction and calls for the release of the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, will be resolved administratively.
He gave the assurance after visiting Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre over the weekend, noting that he has intensified efforts toward securing his release an engagement he began shortly after taking office in 2023.
According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Governor had fruitful discussions with Kanu during the visit. Otti encouraged Kanu to remain strong, assuring him that the engagements started over two years ago are ongoing despite recent challenges.
The statement added that Otti urged Kanu to stay calm, expressing confidence that the matter would be resolved administratively and that Kanu would eventually regain his freedom.
The Governor also expressed delight that the Sultan of Sokoto supports efforts to ease tensions and secure Kanu’s release. He told Kanu that the Sultan jokingly said Kanu was now his subject and that he planned to turban him an update that made Kanu laugh.
In his response, Kanu thanked the Governor for the visit and expressed appreciation for his continued support. He said he was not surprised by Otti’s quick visit, as the Governor had shown similar concern in the past.
Kanu also praised Otti’s developmental strides in Abia, comparing them to the legacies of the late Sam Mbakwe of the old Imo State. He said he was proud of the Governor’s achievements based on feedback from home and urged him to continue serving the people diligently.
The IPOB leader added that his main interest is good governance and anything that improves the welfare of the people. He prayed for God’s guidance on the Governor and his team.
Governor Otti was accompanied by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN; his Media Adviser, Ferdinand Ekeoma; and some Sokoto State Government officials. Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, was also present.