Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has once again called for the release of Nnamdi Kanu. He stated clearly that the Nigerian government has no valid reason to keep the IPOB leader in detention.
Obi shared these views during a recent meeting with Nigerians in Washington, D.C. A video of his speech has since gone viral on social media, sparking fresh debates across Nigeria.
Words are not a crime
During the interaction, the former Anambra State Governor argued that Kanu’s actions do not justify a life sentence. He pointed out that most of the allegations against Kanu involve things he said on the radio.
“You cannot arrest someone because he was speaking on the radio or calling people names. It does not make sense,” Obi told the crowd.
Using himself as an example, Obi noted that politicians face criticism every day. He said that being called names is part of the job and should never be treated as a criminal offense.
Dialogue is the way forward
Obi also shared his vision for peace in Nigeria. He believes the government should talk to agitators instead of using force.
He promised that if he were in power, he would engage in deep consultation. According to him, every group has a reason for their anger. He believes that the government can only find lasting solutions by listening to these grievances.
“It is only by engaging them that we will learn and see how we can solve it,” he added.
The Nigerian Perspective
For many Nigerians, especially in the South-East, the detention of Nnamdi Kanu is a sensitive issue. While the government views his activities as a threat to national security, many others see him as a voice for the marginalized.
Obi’s call for dialogue reflects a growing feeling among Nigerians that military force has failed to bring peace. Many citizens believe that sitting at a table to discuss the “Nigerian Project” is the only way to stop the unrest in various parts of the country.
Current Legal Status
As of now, Nnamdi Kanu remains in custody. In November 2025, a Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced him to life imprisonment. The court found him guilty of terrorism-related charges and membership in a banned group.
Kanu and his legal team have rejected this judgment. They have already filed an appeal, claiming the trial was unfair. As the legal battle continues, Peter Obi’s latest comments have added more weight to the public demand for a political solution.
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