The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has questioned the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), calling the situation “unreasonable” and unjustified.
Speaking on Sunday Politics aired by Channels Television, the former Anambra State governor expressed concern that Kanu remains in custody, particularly if the allegations against him are centered on verbal or non-violent offenses.
“For every one of them—I mean, why is he still being held? It does not make sense to me,” Obi said, when asked whether he would support a political solution for the IPOB leader.
He argued that Kanu’s alleged use of harsh or vulgar language should not warrant prolonged detention, stating, “Some people say he used vulgar words. I haven’t seen them. But even if he did, that doesn’t bother me. If I were president, you could call me a thief or an idiot—which people already do—it wouldn’t matter.”
Obi emphasized that leadership should focus on improving the lives of ordinary citizens. “My duty as a leader is to serve the common man—to ensure there’s food on their table,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to peaceful and inclusive governance, Obi said he would prioritize dialogue over force in addressing national agitations and insecurity.
“If there are people I can talk to, I’ll talk to them,” he said. “Let’s say tomorrow there’s a bandit operating in the North East—I’ll meet with him. That meeting is to open communication and make it clear that enough is enough. After that, I’ll act decisively.”
Obi’s remarks reflect his broader stance on seeking political solutions and engaging with all stakeholders to foster unity, stability, and justice across the country.
