Governor Otti Visits Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in Sokoto, Reaffirms Commitment to Securing His Release

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, on Thursday paid a visit to the Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Sokoto Correctional Centre in Sokoto State.

During the visit, Governor Otti encouraged Kanu to remain steadfast, reassuring him that the behind-the-scenes engagements initiated more than two years ago—of which Kanu has consistently been aware—have not only been sustained but intensified, despite recent developments. He urged Kanu to stay calm and strong, expressing confidence that the matter would be resolved administratively and that Kanu would eventually regain his freedom.

The Governor also shared his delight that the Sultan of Sokoto shares similar views on the need for Kanu’s release and the de-escalation of tension across the country. He narrated a light-hearted moment in which the Sultan jokingly referred to Kanu as “his subject” and teased about turbanning him, a remark that drew hearty laughter from the IPOB leader.

A visibly cheerful Kanu, who appeared in high spirits, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Otti for the visit. He noted that he was not surprised by the Governor’s promptness, recalling that Otti had similarly visited him in the past. Kanu praised the Governor’s performance in Abia State, stating that the positive reports reaching him mirror the impactful leadership once demonstrated by the late Dee Sam Mbakwe of Old Imo State. He urged Governor Otti to remain committed to serving the people diligently.

Kanu emphasized that his primary interest has always been good governance and the wellbeing of the people. He offered prayers for the Governor and his team, asking God to guide and strengthen them as they continue their service to the state.

Governor Otti was accompanied by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma; as well as several senior Sokoto State officials, including commissioners and advisers. Also present was Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu.