Biafra: I’ll Free Nnamdi Kanu as President — Peter Obi

The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to release Nnamdi Kanu if elected president, insisting that dialogue remains the best approach to addressing separatist agitations and political grievances in Nigeria.

Obi made the remarks while addressing Nigerians in Washington, where he outlined his views on national unity, security and the handling of agitations across the country.

The former Anambra State governor argued that there was no justification for Kanu’s continued detention, stating that criticism or offensive remarks directed at political leaders should not be treated as criminal offences.

“There’s no reason for keeping Nnamdi Kanu. I will free Nnamdi Kanu as President. He has done nothing wrong,” Obi said.

According to him, comments made on radio broadcasts should not be enough grounds for imprisonment.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate noted that politicians regularly face criticism and insults from members of the public and should not respond by criminalising such expressions.

“Anybody can tell you anything. I’m a politician and people call me all sorts of names and I don’t think calling me names is an offence,” he stated.

Obi also stressed the importance of engagement in resolving political and social tensions, saying his administration would prioritise dialogue with various groups expressing grievances against the Nigerian state.

“If I am in government today, I will discuss with all agitators because I believe that they have a reason for whatever they want to do and it’s only by engaging them that we would learn,” he said.

The former governor maintained that peaceful discussions would provide an opportunity to understand the concerns driving agitation and create pathways toward lasting solutions.

Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), remains one of the most controversial figures in Nigeria’s political landscape. His detention and legal challenges have continued to generate debate among supporters, critics and political stakeholders across the country.

Obi’s comments are expected to reignite discussions on the handling of separatist movements, freedom of expression and national reconciliation.

While reaffirming his commitment to dialogue and inclusion, Obi acknowledged that he currently lacks the authority to influence Kanu’s situation directly, emphasizing that any action would depend on his emergence as president.

His remarks add another dimension to the growing political conversations ahead of the 2027 general elections.