Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has announced that mechanisms to secure the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, have been activated, following his conviction for terrorism-related offences.
Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment by a Federal High Court in Abuja on 20 November 2025. The verdict sparked widespread shock and grief across Abia State and the wider Southeast region.
In a statement, Governor Otti said the court’s judgment “is not yet the end of the road” and that a diplomatic process previously agreed with the Federal Government is now in motion to pursue Kanu’s freedom.
Otti recalled his long-standing advocacy for dialogue as the best way to resolve tensions surrounding IPOB, dating back to 2017 when soldiers raided Kanu’s home in Afaraukwu, Umuahia. At the time, he condemned the military operation and warned that forceful measures would escalate rather than resolve the conflict.
He said he had engaged top federal authorities since December 2023 to explore a political and diplomatic solution. “Certain agreements were reached, but they depended on the timely conclusion of Kanu’s trial. Now that judgment has been delivered, the alternative resolution will kick in,” he said, adding that he personally discussed the strategy with Kanu during a visit to him in DSS custody earlier this year.
Governor Otti urged residents to remain calm and avoid actions or statements that could escalate tensions or hinder ongoing diplomatic efforts. He also warned politicians against exploiting Kanu’s situation for political gain, stressing that the focus should be on unity and peaceful resolution.
“With the assurances I have received from the Federal Government, a resolution is in sight, and Mazi Kanu will receive his freedom,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to pursuing the matter through dialogue and diplomacy.