Gov. Otti Visits Nnamdi Kanu In Sokoto, Reassures Of Intensified Efforts Toward His Release

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, on Saturday paid a private visit to the detained Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Sokoto Correctional Centre in Sokoto State, assuring him of ongoing administrative efforts aimed at securing his freedom.

Governor Otti, who arrived the facility in company of top government officials, held a closed-door interaction with Kanu, during which he encouraged him to remain strong and hopeful. According to the Governor, engagements and negotiations initiated over two years ago in pursuit of Kanu’s release have not only continued but have been intensified.

“Remain calm and strong. The process toward securing your freedom is ongoing and will be resolved administratively,” Governor Otti assured the IPOB leader.

The Governor expressed optimism following his recent engagement with the Sultan of Sokoto, whom he disclosed shared similar views on the need to de-escalate tension in the Southeast and ensure Kanu’s release. Otti revealed that the Sultan, in a moment of humor, joked that Nnamdi Kanu had become his subject and would soon be turbaned, a comment that reportedly triggered laughter from the IPOB leader.

In response, an upbeat Mazi Nnamdi Kanu expressed deep gratitude to the Governor for the visit, noting that he was not surprised by Otti’s swift action given his past supportive gestures.

Kanu commended the Governor for what he described as “giant developmental strides” in Abia State, likening his administrative performance to the legacy of the late Governor of old Imo State, Dee Sam Mbakwe.

“I am proud of the transformation happening in Abia. You are towing a path of excellence similar to Dee Sam Mbakwe, and history will remember you,” Kanu stated.

He stressed that his only concern has always been good governance and the well-being of the people, and offered prayers for the Governor and his team.

Governor Otti was accompanied by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN; Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma; select Sokoto State government officials; and Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu.

The visit marks one of the most significant political engagements surrounding Kanu’s detention since his transfer to the Sokoto Correctional Centre.