Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has expressed strong optimism that Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom in the near future. Speaking during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to Abia State on October 3, 2025, Otti revealed ongoing engagements with the President, who is reportedly favourably disposed towards securing Kanu’s release.
“I can assure you that I am engaging with Mr President. He is favourably disposed to it, and I am sure that in no distant future, Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom,” Otti stated.
The Governor highlighted his long-standing friendship with President Tinubu, emphasizing the President’s reliability and trustworthiness. Otti affirmed his belief that any promises made by Tinubu will be kept.
Meanwhile, Minister of Works Senator David Umahi, representing the President, urged calm and unity among the Southeast states. He assured that South-East governors, senators, and representatives are working seriously to find a political solution to the Kanu issue.
Nnamdi Kanu has been on trial for terrorism charges since his rendition from Kenya in 2021, following an earlier arrest in 2015. The Federal High Court recently dismissed a no-case submission by Kanu, ordering him to open his defense.
The developments come amid growing calls for a peaceful resolution to Kanu’s detention, which remains a highly sensitive and closely watched issue in Nigeria’s South-East region.