I’ll release Nnamdi Kanu, pursue dialogue with agitators if elected – Peter Obi

The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has reiterated his commitment to releasing Nnamdi Kanu and adopting dialogue as a key strategy for addressing separatist agitations across the country if elected president.

Speaking during a recent visit to Washington, D.C., Obi maintained that there is no justification for Kanu’s continued detention, stressing that political disagreements should be resolved through engagement rather than prolonged incarceration.

According to Obi, democratic societies thrive on free expression and open dialogue, even when opinions are controversial or critical of those in power.

“I have said this repeatedly, there is no reason for detaining Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. You cannot arrest someone simply because he is expressing his views on radio. As a politician, I have been criticised and called different names, but that is part of democracy,” Obi stated.

The former Anambra State governor said his administration would prioritize negotiations and constructive engagement with individuals and groups expressing grievances against the Nigerian state.

He argued that dialogue remains a more effective approach to resolving conflicts and reducing tensions than the use of force or prolonged legal battles.

Obi further stated that if elected president, he would seek peaceful solutions to issues surrounding separatist movements and other forms of agitation through consultation and reconciliation.

The remarks are expected to generate fresh debate across the political landscape, particularly among supporters and critics of Kanu’s detention and the broader issue of separatist agitations in Nigeria.

Central Post Nigeria reports that, Kanu, who leads the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has remained a central figure in discussions surrounding security, national unity, and self-determination in the South-East region.