South East Governors Are Seriously Engaging Relevant Authorities For Kanu’s Release — Otti

Abia State governor Alex Otti has sought to clarify the misconception that South East governors have forsaken Nnamdi Kanu, the imprisoned leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

During a media interaction on Thursday night in Umuahia, Otti explained that the region’s governors are actively collaborating with relevant authorities to secure Kanu’s release. He stressed, however, that some discussions must remain confidential, cautioning that premature public disclosure of certain assurances could undermine the process.

“Some of the engagements and assurances we have received are not for public consumption since it may derail the process. But you can take it for granted that, as his governor, I’m at the forefront of ensuring he comes back home. All the South East governors are together in this,” Otti stated.

His remarks followed a protest by elders from across the South East at Government House, Umuahia, on Wednesday, condemning Kanu’s ongoing detention. The elders criticized political leaders for allegedly neglecting the IPOB leader and called on Otti to mobilize his colleagues to directly appeal to President Bola Tinubu on the issue.

Otti expressed optimism that the ongoing efforts would ultimately yield a positive outcome.

Addressing communal conflicts in the state, the governor spoke on the persistent clashes between the Itu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia and its Cross River neighbors. The violence, which has displaced numerous residents, has been attributed to unverified claims of natural resources, particularly limestone, in the contested area. Otti noted that his administration is collaborating with the governments of Cross River and Akwa Ibom States to restore calm, with Abia Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu leading discussions in Abuja alongside counterparts from neighboring states.

“So please reassure the displaced people that they are not abandoned and that very soon they will return to their ancestral homes,” Otti added.

The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revitalizing Abia, emphasizing that he would not be swayed by blackmail or politically driven attacks. While recognizing the importance of constructive criticism, Otti denounced what he called mischief, distortion of facts, and efforts to hinder progress. He pledged that such distractions would not prevent him from fulfilling his promises to the people of the state.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli