Alex Otti, governor of Abia State, has visited imprisoned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre in Sokoto State. The visit, confirmed by his media aide, came just days after a federal court in Abuja sentenced Kanu to life imprisonment on terrorism charges.
Otti was joined by Kanu’s younger brother, Emmanuel Kanu, the Abia State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice (SAN) and other officials, including some from the Sokoto state government. The governor reportedly encouraged Kanu to “remain calm but strong,” and reassured him that engagements initiated over two years ago to secure his freedom have been intensified despite the recent court verdict.
In a lighthearted moment during the visit, Otti reportedly told Kanu that the Sultan of Sokoto had jokingly declared Kanu “now his subject” and planned to turban him, a remark that made the IPOB leader laugh.
As part of the assurances, Otti said the issue surrounding Kanu’s detention will be addressed “administratively,” suggesting efforts are underway to negotiate or mediate for his release. The governor’s team emphasized that the matter is still being pursued, and that Kanu may eventually regain his freedom.
Kanu, according to sources, expressed gratitude to Otti for the gesture. He commended the governor for his efforts and indicated that his interest remains in good governance and improving the well-being of the people. He also prayed for the governor and his administration as they continue on the task of public service.
The visit marks the first time since his life sentence that a sitting governor has met with Kanu in Sokoto. Many observers view Otti’s action as bold and proactive. Some political actors have since commended the governor, calling the visit a demonstration of leadership and concern for the welfare of all Nigerians.
Whether this visit will lead to an actual release remains uncertain. But Otti’s assurances and the renewed engagement represent a notable development in the ongoing saga surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s detention.
