Conviction Not the End, Nnamdi Kanu Will Be Released Soon — Gov. Otti Assures Igbo, Calls for Calm Across Southeast

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has appealed for calm across the Southeast following the conviction and life-sentence handed down to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, assuring that diplomatic efforts for his release have already been activated and remain on course.

 

 

The governor made this known on Friday in a detailed statement addressing the shock, outrage, and emotional distress that swept across Abia State and the wider Southeast after Thursday’s ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

 

Kanu, an Abia-born activist and the most prominent figure in the campaign for Biafran self-determination, was found guilty of terrorism-related charges and immediately sentenced to life imprisonment — a verdict that has generated nationwide reaction and increased tension across the region.

 

 

Governor Otti acknowledged the widespread pain triggered by the judgment, describing the mood in the state as one of “shock and sorrow.” However, he urged residents not to lose hope, stressing that the conviction does not signify the end of the road for Kanu. Instead, he affirmed that an alternative political and diplomatic resolution process long discussed with federal authorities is now set to commence following the court’s decision.

 

 

“The Judgment Is Not the End — Diplomatic Mechanism Has Been Activated”

 

According to Otti, discussions with the Federal Government on a non-judicial resolution for Kanu began as far back as December 2023. He said both parties reached certain agreements, but these would only take effect after the conclusion of the legal process. With Thursday’s judgment now delivered, Otti indicated that the window for political intervention has fully opened.

 

“I want to assure our people that the diplomatic and political strategy we earlier agreed upon is already in motion,” Otti said. “The court decision merely marks a stage in the process — not the end. I have received firm assurances from federal authorities that a peaceful resolution is within reach, and I remain committed to pursuing it until Mazi Kanu regains his freedom.”

 

The governor revealed that he had personally informed Kanu about the plan during a visit to him in DSS detention earlier in the year, expressing confidence that the agreed strategy would provide a pathway to freedom that avoids prolonged legal battles.

 

 

A History of Dialogue and Advocacy

 

In his statement, Otti reminded the public that his commitment to dialogue as the best solution to the IPOB crisis dates back to 2017 — long before he became governor. He recalled forcefully condemning the military invasion of Kanu’s home in Afaraukwu, Umuahia, during “Operation Python Dance,” which resulted in loss of lives and widespread destruction.

 

Eight days after the invasion, he published a widely circulated column titled “Operation Python Dance: Killing a Fly With a Sledgehammer,” arguing that excessive use of military force against IPOB would worsen the situation rather than resolve it. His position, he said, was rooted in the belief that leadership should be anchored on emotional intelligence, restraint, and tolerance, not brute force.

 

 

“The poor management of the IPOB issue at the incubation stage created the bigger problem we see today,” Otti reiterated. “And because of this, we cannot afford to allow the situation to linger and become even more monstrous. Dialogue remains the only sustainable route to peace.”

 

 

Appeal for Calm and Warning Against Violence

 

Governor Otti urged residents of Abia and the entire Southeast to remain calm, avoid inflammatory comments, and refrain from actions that could jeopardize the delicate negotiations already underway. He warned that any form of violence, protests, or incitement might undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts and delay the prospects of securing Kanu’s release.

 

 

“I appeal to our people to exercise patience and not engage in any behavior that could derail the progress we have made. We are navigating a delicate process, and tension or violence could undermine everything. With the assurances I have received from the Federal Government, I am convinced that a resolution is in sight.”

 

 

Warning to Politicians: “Do Not Play Politics With Kanu’s Ordeal”

 

In a strongly worded portion of the statement, the governor cautioned politicians and public figures who may be attempting to exploit Kanu’s conviction for political gain. He described such actions as destructive, insensitive, and counterproductive to the collective efforts being made to secure the release of the IPOB leader.

 

“This is not the time for petty or dirty politics,” Otti warned. “Anyone who genuinely cares about the peace and stability of the Southeast must join hands with us in the ongoing diplomatic engagements, rather than using Mazi Kanu’s trials as a tool for political manipulation.”

 

 

Commitment to Peace and Regional Stability

 

Otti reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to restoring lasting peace across the Southeast through high-level diplomacy, bridge-building, and genuine dialogue. According to him, only a peaceful resolution — not force — can address the underlying issues fueling discontent in the region.

 

 

He stressed that while Kanu is free to pursue an appeal to overturn the conviction, the diplomatic process remains the most promising route and is already progressing with government support.

 

 

“I remain deeply committed to the agreed strategy and will continue to work with those who genuinely want to see peace restored to the Southeast,” Otti said. “Our goal is clear: to secure Kanu’s freedom using wisdom, diplomacy, and constructive engagement.”

 

 

Hope in the Midst of Uncertainty

 

Otti’s assurance has brought a measure of calm across the region, especially among residents of Abia who regard Kanu as one of their own. While the court’s verdict has been difficult for many to accept, the governor’s commitment to a political solution has reignited hope that the IPOB leader may soon breathe the air of freedom again.

 

“Our people are hurting,” Otti acknowledged. “But I want everyone to know that this is not the end. With careful and persistent engagement, justice and peace will prevail.”