Labour Party’s 2027 presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, has criticized the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), calling it unreasonable.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi asked why Kanu remains in custody simply for criticising the government.
“For every one of them… why is he still being held? It does not make sense to me,” Obi stated. “Some people said because he used vulgar words. But it doesn’t bother me if I’m president whether you call me thief or idiot. My duty is to make sure common people have food on their table.”
Obi, who previously ran for president in 2023, said he would pursue political, not just legal, solutions for Kanu and others in similar detention cases. “If there are people I can talk to… I’ll meet with him… to establish a link to say enough is enough. And afterwards, I’ll deal with it decisively.”
The ongoing case of Kanu has gained national attention. The IPOB leader, arrested in 2021 and detained over his advocacy for Biafran self-determination, remains in custody despite court orders for his release.
Obi’s comments come during growing debate about political detentions and the lengths taken by successive administrations. He also emphasized national unity and his promise to focus government efforts on everyday citizens if elected leader.
As Obi champions political dialogue, he signals a shift from confrontation to engagement, even with those seen as divisive, highlighting his proposed leadership style ahead of 2027.