Alex Otti, the Abia State Governor, has asked the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to stay calm and steadfast as he continues efforts to secure his release.
It was gathered that Otti assured Nnamdi Kanu during a visit to the IPOB leader at the Sokoto Correctional Centre.
This was disclosed on Sunday night in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma.
Otti, who was accompanied by Abia State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna (SAN); Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu; and senior officials of the Sokoto State government, told Nnamdi Kanu that the processes he initiated more than two years ago toward resolving the issue had been “heightened despite recent developments.”
The governor encouraged Kanu to “remain calm but strong,” assuring him that the matter “will be resolved administratively” and that he would eventually regain his freedom.
He also expressed satisfaction that the Sultan of Sokoto shared his stance on the need for Kanu’s release and the broader de-escalation of regional tensions.
Responding, Kanu, who was said to be in high spirits during the visit, reportedly expressed gratitude to Otti for the gesture.
He told the governor that his primary interest was good governance and any effort that would improve the well-being of the people.
He also prayed for God’s guidance for Otti and his team as they continue to serve the state.
The Abia government noted that Kanu was “all smiles” during the meeting and appreciative of the renewed efforts to address his situation.
Recall that following Kanu’s sentencing to life imprisonment, Governor Otti had disclosed that efforts to free the IPOB leader were already underway, stressing that a release framework had been quietly activated “during the trial.”
Kanu was imprisoned after being found guilty of terrorism related crimes.
