Governor Alex Otti Speaks on Nnamdi Kanu’s Conviction, says all hope not lost

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti has reacted to the life imprisonment sentence handed down to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu by a Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, November 20, 2025.

Otti described the judgement as a painful development that has thrown Abia State and many Nigerians into shock and sorrow. He reminded the public that as far back as 2017, when soldiers invaded Kanu’s home in Afaraukwu, he openly condemned the action and called for dialogue instead of force.

According to the Governor, the mishandling of the IPOB matter from the early stages created the crisis the nation faces today, stressing that leadership should rely on emotional intelligence, restraint, and peaceful engagement rather than violence.

Governor Otti revealed that he had been engaging top authorities since December 22, 2023, exploring an alternative resolution strategy for Kanu’s case. He noted that some agreements were reached but depended on a quick conclusion of the trial. Now that judgement has been delivered, he is confident the agreed diplomatic process will proceed.

He assured Ndi Abia that he has already reactivated the strategy aimed at securing Kanu’s release, and will continue to work with well-meaning Nigerians using dialogue and diplomacy. He added that he had previously explained this strategy to Nnamdi Kanu during a visit to him in DSS custody.

Otti urged the people of Abia and the South East to remain calm, avoid provocative statements or actions, and allow ongoing engagements with the Federal Government — which he says has given assurances — to progress smoothly.

He also warned politicians against exploiting Kanu’s ordeal for cheap political gains, urging them instead to support efforts geared toward his freedom.

Governor Otti reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring lasting peace in the South East through wisdom, high-level dialogue, and diplomacy.