Abia State Governor Alex Otti has assured jailed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu of his ongoing efforts to secure his release, urging him to remain calm and resolute amid continued administrative engagements.

The assurance came during a visit to Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, confirmed in a statement released Sunday night by Otti’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma.

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Governor Otti Leads High-Level Delegation to Sokoto

Governor Otti was accompanied by:

• Ikechukwu Uwanna (SAN), Abia State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice
• Prince Emmanuel Kanu, younger brother of Nnamdi Kanu
• Senior officials of the Sokoto State government

During the visit, Otti informed Kanu that the processes he initiated more than two years ago to resolve the issue had been intensified despite recent developments.

“Remain calm but strong,” Otti reportedly told Kanu. “The matter will be resolved administratively, and you will eventually regain your freedom.”

The governor also expressed satisfaction that the Sultan of Sokoto shared his stance on the need for Kanu’s release and the broader de-escalation of regional tensions.

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Kanu Responds Positively

Sources indicated that Kanu was in high spirits during the visit and expressed gratitude to Otti for the gesture. He emphasized that his primary interest lies in good governance and improving the well-being of the people.

Kanu also prayed for God’s guidance for Otti and his team as they continue to serve Abia State, while reportedly showing appreciation for the renewed efforts toward resolving his incarceration.

The Abia government noted that Kanu was “all smiles” during the meeting and acknowledged the ongoing efforts to address his situation.

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Background: Kanu’s Conviction and Controversial Transfer

Kanu was convicted on November 21, 2025, by the Federal High Court in Abuja on seven terrorism-related charges and sentenced to life imprisonment. Following his sentencing, he was transferred from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja to the Sokoto Correctional Facility, a move that has drawn public attention and controversy.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court delivered judgment in the long-running case brought by the Federal Government, finding Kanu guilty on terrorism-related counts.

Earlier, in October 2023, an Enugu High Court nullified the proscription of IPOB as a terrorist organization and awarded N8 billion against the Defendants, which included the South East Governors Forum and the Federal Government.

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Security and Public Reaction

Footage obtained by SaharaReporters showed a heavy security presence surrounding the Sokoto prison during Governor Otti’s visit, highlighting the sensitive nature of the proceedings and ongoing public scrutiny.

Otti’s visit underscores continued political and administrative engagement aimed at de-escalating tensions and ensuring that procedural avenues are pursued to address Kanu’s incarceration.