By Desmond Ogbonmwan
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has reiterated his opposition to the continued imprisonment of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, insisting there is no justification for his incarceration.
Obi made the remarks during an engagement with members of the Nigerian diaspora in Washington, D.C., where he spoke on national unity, governance, and the handling of separatist agitations across the country.
According to the former Anambra State governor, he has consistently maintained that Kanu should not remain in detention and believes dialogue remains the most effective way to address grievances raised by agitators.
“I have said this repeatedly, there is no reason for keeping Nnamdi Kanu. As far as I’m concerned, there’s no reason whatsoever,” Obi said.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate argued that expressing opinions, criticism, or even insulting public officials should not be treated as a criminal offence.
“You cannot arrest somebody because he was speaking on radio and calling people names. It doesn’t make sense. Anybody can tell you anything. I’m a politician. People call me all sorts of names. I don’t think calling me names is an offence. It is not an offence,” he added.
Obi Advocates Dialogue
Obi said that if given the opportunity to lead the country, he would prioritise engagement and consultation with individuals and groups expressing dissatisfaction with the Nigerian state.
According to him, meaningful dialogue is often the first step towards resolving political tensions and addressing the concerns of aggrieved groups.
“If I’m in government today, I will discuss with all agitators. I will engage with them. I will consult with them.
“Because I believe that they have a reason for whatever they want to do. It’s only by engaging them that we’ll learn and see how we can solve it,” he said.
Background on Kanu’s Conviction
Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is currently serving a life sentence following his conviction on terrorism-related charges by a Federal High Court in Abuja in November 2025.
The court found him guilty on multiple counts, including incitement, membership of a proscribed organisation, and offences linked to separatist activities in the South-East.
His detention and subsequent conviction have remained subjects of intense political debate, particularly among supporters who continue to demand his release.
Renewed Debate
Obi’s latest comments are expected to reignite discussions surrounding Kanu’s imprisonment, freedom of expression, national security, and the government’s approach to separatist movements.
While supporters of Kanu have repeatedly called for political solutions and dialogue, others argue that the legal process should be respected following the court’s judgment.
The remarks have already generated reactions online, with many Nigerians debating whether dialogue or stricter enforcement remains the best path toward lasting peace and stability in the country.
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