Peter Obi Advocates for Nnamdi Kanu's Release and Urges Government to Uphold Rule of Law

 Peter Obi, the Labour Party candidate in the 2023 presidential election, has called for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), from detention.

Nnamdi Kanu, currently held at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Abuja, is facing charges of terrorism and treason brought by the Federal Government. However, Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, emphasized that there is no justifiable reason for Kanu's continued detention, especially since the court had granted him bail.

"The government must obey the law, as the rule of law is an intrinsic asset that we must cherish and live with," Obi stated. "I have always said that I am going to discuss with every agitator."

Obi also urged the government to release others detained under similar circumstances, in accordance with the rule of law. "We must ensure that all those who are in similar conditions are released and discussed with. We are a democratic nation and should not engage in arbitrary actions outside the law."

Furthermore, Obi called on Nigerian leaders to enhance their efforts in securing the country, stressing that the primary duty of any government is the security of lives and property. "It is worrisome what is happening in Nigeria, where people wake up every day to news of killings, abductions, and kidnappings, making Nigeria one of the most insecure places on earth. This requires urgent attention," he said.

Addressing the insecurity in the South East, Obi advised the governors of the region to collaborate more effectively to tackle the issue. "I thank the governments in the zone for their efforts, but there is a need to do more. Our governors should come together as a family to solve this problem," he suggested, offering to share his experience and insights with current leaders.

Obi also spoke on protests, expressing support for peaceful demonstrations while condemning riots and the destruction of government property. "Peaceful protest is allowed, but it must be for a reason and not for the personal interests of some people. It must be properly articulated and directed," he said. "I recall when people said they were protesting police brutality, and I advised them to address the leadership issue instead. If we have good leaders, their agents can't be bad."

He called for the release of all those detained for participating in protests, including freedom fighters and EndSARS protesters, emphasizing the importance of upholding constitutional rights to free expression and peaceful protest.

Regarding speculation about joining other politicians to form a mega party, Obi stated that his primary concern is addressing the pressing issues facing Nigerians. "I am more focused on how poor Nigerians can feed. Our people are dying of hunger. How do we make life more conducive for the poor Nigerian? How do we pull people out of poverty? That should be our concern, not forming a mega party," he said. However, he added that if forming a mega party would help achieve these goals, he would support it. "But if it is for state capture and continuing the current cycle of consumption, I will say no. If it is to shift towards production, then I say yes."