Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has said that governors from the Southeast are making efforts with relevant authorities to secure the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
The governor, while speaking at a media parley in Umuahia on Thursday night, explained that although much of the engagement is not made public, steps are being taken behind the scenes to ensure Kanu’s freedom. He noted that as the governor of Kanu’s home state, he is personally involved in the process alongside other governors from the region.
His assurance came shortly after elders from different parts of the Southeast staged a protest at the Abia State Government House, accusing political leaders of neglecting Kanu’s case. The elders urged Governor Otti to work with his colleagues to press President Bola Tinubu to intervene.
Governor Otti also addressed the recurring clashes between Itu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia and its neighbors in Cross River State. He said the violence, believed to be linked to reports of natural resources in the disputed land, has displaced several residents. According to him, discussions are ongoing between Abia, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom governments in Abuja, with Abia’s deputy governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, leading the talks.
The governor assured displaced residents that they will soon return to their homes once peace is restored. He added that his administration remains focused on improving Abia State and will not be distracted by blackmail, misinformation, or politically motivated attacks, but will remain open to genuine criticism that can aid development.