The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has assured residents that the recent life sentence handed to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, does not mark the end of efforts to secure his release. Governor Otti stated that he has “activated and will continue to work on his freedom,” emphasizing his commitment to diplomatic and legal solutions. Okay News reports.
The statement comes after the Federal High Court in Abuja, on Thursday, November 20, 2025, found Kanu guilty of terrorism-related offences and sentenced him to life imprisonment. In his personal statement released on Saturday, Otti said, “Without doubt, this development has broken a lot of our people and created an atmosphere of shock and sorrow in Abia and beyond.”
Reflecting on previous crises, Otti recalled the September 2017 military operation at Kanu’s family home in Afaraukwu, Umuahia, which resulted in property destruction and loss of lives. “I immediately and strongly condemned that avoidable act and appealed that dialogue should henceforth be explored as the best approach to resolving the IPOB issue,” he said. He further referenced his Thisday column titled Operation Python Dance: Killing a Fly With a Sledge Hammer, where he criticized the use of force and urged alternative strategies.
Otti also highlighted his ongoing engagement with authorities, stating, “While the trial that led to this conviction lasted, I personally engaged the authorities at the highest level, starting from December 22, 2023, on alternative resolution strategy. I must state that some agreements were made which were dependent on quick dispensation of the matter at the federal high court. Unfortunately, the matter dragged until this time.”
He assured that his efforts to secure Kanu’s release through diplomacy and dialogue will continue. “I have activated and will continue to work on the already agreed strategy until his freedom is secured. I am also happy to collaborate with other well-meaning Nigerians who genuinely want this problem resolved, to push for his freedom through the same diplomacy and dialogue with the federal government,” Otti added.
The governor appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid statements or actions that could escalate tension or insecurity. He also cautioned politicians against exploiting Kanu’s situation for personal political gains, urging cooperation with government efforts instead.
