‎I’ll Release Kanu if Elected, Dialogue is Better Than Detention, Says Obi ‎

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has renewed his call for the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, insisting that there is no justification for his continued detention.
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‎Speaking during an event in Washington, Obi argued that individuals should not be arrested solely for expressing their opinions, stressing that freedom of expression remains a fundamental democratic right.
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‎“I have said this repeatedly, there is no reason for detaining Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. You cannot arrest somebody just because the person is speaking on radio,” Obi stated.
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‎The former Anambra State governor said criticism and verbal attacks against political leaders should not be treated as criminal offences, noting that public figures are often subjected to harsh comments.
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‎“I am a politician, people have been calling me names, it’s not an offence,” he said.
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‎Obi further extended his position to other agitators and separatist groups across the country, maintaining that meaningful engagement and dialogue are more effective tools for addressing grievances than repression.
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‎According to him, governments should seek to understand the concerns of aggrieved groups through consultation and discussion in order to find lasting solutions.
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‎“Even all agitators; if I was in government today, I will discuss with them and engage with them, I will consult them. Because I believe if they have a reason for whatever they want to do, it’s only by engaging them we will learn and see how we can resolve this,” Obi said.
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‎He, however, acknowledged that he currently holds no public office and therefore lacks the authority to implement such measures.
‎“But I am not in position to do anything today,” he added.
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