Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the continued detention of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Obi spoke during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics program on July 6, 2025.
He questioned why the Nigerian government still holds Kanu despite growing legal and public pressure for his release.
“Why is he still being held? It doesn’t make sense to me,” Obi told host Seun Okinbaloye.
Obi argued that Kanu’s alleged use of vulgar language is not enough reason to justify indefinite incarceration.
“Some people say he used vulgar words. I haven’t seen it. But even so, it shouldn’t matter,” he said.
Obi noted that public officials must accept criticism, whether respectful or not.
“They call me a thief or idiot today. That doesn’t bother me,” Obi added.
“My job as a leader is to feed the common man, not to arrest critics.”
He insisted that his approach to national unrest would prioritize dialogue over force and listening over silence.
“If someone is causing trouble, I’ll talk to them. That’s the first step,” Obi said.
He explained that even with violent agitators or bandits, he would first seek a channel of communication.
“Dialogue comes first. Then I’ll act firmly and decisively if needed,” Obi stated.
Obi’s remarks come amid renewed legal focus on Kanu’s case.
A Kenyan court recently declared Kanu’s 2021 transfer to Nigeria illegal, sparking calls for his release.
Obi emphasized that inclusive politics and negotiation are critical to resolving secessionist tensions in Nigeria.
“We need real political solutions—not endless detention or armed conflict,” he said.
The IPOB leader has spent over three years in detention after his controversial arrest and repatriation from Kenya.
Kanu faces multiple charges, including treason and terrorism.
His lawyers insist the government violated international law and civil rights during his arrest.
Obi’s comments triggered strong reactions online, especially among Igbo leaders and youth groups.
Many praised his boldness and called for renewed political will to end Kanu’s detention peacefully.
