Peter Obi says Nnamdi Kanu shouldn't remain in prison. The NDC presidential candidate made the remark during an engagement with Nigerians in Washington, D.C.
Obi argued that holding the IPOB leader in custody won't solve underlying grievances driving unrest across Nigeria's southeast. He stressed his stance on Kanu's case remains consistent.
Kanu is currently serving a life sentence. A Federal High Court in Abuja convicted him on terrorism-related charges in November 2025.
He faced multiple counts including incitement and membership in a proscribed organization. The judgment also touched on separatist operations in the South East.
Kanu rejected the verdict immediately. His legal team filed an appeal to challenge both his conviction and the sentence imposed.
His lawyers have questioned the fairness of proceedings throughout. The case continues drawing intense national attention and political debate.
But Obi sees it differently. In his view, merely expressing controversial opinions shouldn't result in criminal charges.
"There's no reason, no reason whatsoever" for Kanu's imprisonment, Obi told reporters. He questioned why someone should face arrest simply for radio broadcasts or public criticism.
According to him, such actions don't constitute crimes. "It doesn't make sense," he added during the Washington session.
Obi drew on his own political journey. As a public figure, he regularly endures name-calling and verbal attacks from citizens without consequence.
"People call me all sorts of names," he noted. "Calling me names has nothing to do with anything.
It's not an offence," Obi emphasized.
He outlined a different approach to handling agitations. Dialogue, not force, would guide his strategy if he gains power.
Governments must understand why groups agitate in the first place. Relying solely on coercion won't resolve deep-seated conflicts, Obi contended.
"If I'm in government today, I will discuss with them," he said about separatist groups. Engagement and consultation matter more than punishment.
"I will engage with them. I will consult with them," Obi continued.
He believes agitators have legitimate reasons for their actions.
"It's only by engaging them that we'll learn how we can solve it," the former Anambra governor concluded. Understanding motivations opens pathways to lasting solutions.
Obi's comments add fuel to ongoing debates about Kanu's detention. Many Nigerians remain divided on whether his imprisonment advances national security or deepens regional tensions.
