Otti visit to Kanu brings fresh assurance as Abia governor says efforts to secure IPOB leader’s release are ongoing
Abia State Governor Alex Otti on Sunday in Sokoto visited the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, assuring him that efforts to secure his release were still underway following renewed engagements with federal authorities.
Also read: Governor Otti urges accountants to uphold integrity in Abia
The governor was accompanied by Emmanuel Kanu, the younger brother of the detainee, as well as the Abia State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna, and his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma.
Senior officials of the Sokoto State Government were also present during the visit, which marked Otti’s first meeting with the separatist leader since his relocation to the North-West.
Ekeoma, in a statement issued after the meeting, said Otti encouraged Kanu to remain steadfast, explaining that the diplomatic and administrative engagements he initiated over two years ago had been intensified.
Otti expressed optimism that the matter would be resolved administratively, describing the current phase of talks as constructive and promising.
The governor also informed Kanu that the Sultan of Sokoto had expressed support for a peaceful settlement of the issue.
Ekeoma added that Otti jokingly relayed the Sultan’s remark that Kanu was now his “subject” and might even be turbaned, a light-hearted comment that drew laughter from the IPOB leader and softened the mood of the meeting.
Kanu, who was said to be in high spirits, thanked Otti for the visit and described it as a morale-boosting gesture.
He commended the governor for the development strides recorded in Abia State and urged him to continue prioritising good governance for the benefit of the people.
Also read: Alex Otti Denies APC Defection Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty to LP
Before the delegation departed, Kanu offered prayers for Otti and his team, reaffirming his appreciation for the governor’s sustained engagement on his behalf.
