There is no need to keep Nnamdi Kanu in prison -Peter Obi

Former governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) Peter Obi, has again called for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) group, Nnamdi Kanu.

Speaking in an interactive session with Nigerians in Washington, DC, United States, in a video widely shared on social media, Obi stated that there was no justification for Kanu’s continued detention.

According to Obidient Movement, which also shared the video, the visit took place several days ago.

The former governor of Anambra State said he consistently maintained that Kanu should not be detained.

“I have repeatedly said that there is no reason to keep Nnamdi Kanu. As far as I know, there is no reason, no reason whatsoever.

“You can’t arrest someone because he talks on the radio or calls people names. That’s absurd,” he said.

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Based on his experience as a politician, Obi said that public figures often receive criticism and ridicule, which according to him should not be considered a criminal act.

“I’m a politician. People call me all kinds of names. And I don’t think calling me anything has anything to do with… It’s not an offense,” he said.

Obi also said he would engage in dialogue to address the unrest across the country if given the opportunity to lead.

He said involving agitators would help the government understand the problems driving their demands and find long-term solutions.

“Even all the agitators, if I were in the current government, I would discuss with them. I would engage with them.

“I will consult with them. Because I’m sure they have reasons for whatever they want to do. Only by involving them will we learn and see how we can solve it. But I’m not in a position to do anything today,” added Obi.

Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, is currently serving a life prison sentence following his conviction on terrorism-related charges by the Federal High Court in Abuja in November 2025.