Governor Alex Otti assures Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom is possible through dialogue despite life imprisonment verdict.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has assured the people of Abia and Nigerians at large that the recent life imprisonment verdict against Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not the end of the road. The Federal High Court in Abuja found the IPOB leader guilty of terrorism-related offences on Thursday, November 20, 2025, sparking widespread shock and sorrow.
Governor Otti recalled that the roots of the crisis can be traced back to September 2017, when a military operation at Mazi Kanu’s home in Afaraukwu Umuahia led to property destruction and loss of lives. At that time, he condemned the use of force and called for dialogue as a more effective approach to resolving the IPOB issue, emphasizing that leadership demands emotional intelligence, restraint, and tolerance over violence.
Reflecting on past efforts, Governor Otti noted that poor management of the IPOB issue at its early stages contributed to the present situation. He stressed the importance of preventing further escalation and reiterated that alternative resolution strategies were discussed with the authorities at the highest level since December 22, 2023. Some agreements had been reached contingent upon the swift handling of the case at the Federal High Court, but delays extended the process.
Governor Otti emphasized that Mazi Kanu is free to appeal the conviction, and he has activated a pre-agreed strategy to pursue his release. He also encouraged collaboration with well-meaning Nigerians to engage the federal government through diplomacy and dialogue to secure Kanu’s freedom, highlighting that the government, though not responsible for creating the problem, has the power to resolve it responsibly.
He appealed to the public to remain calm, avoid actions or statements that could escalate tensions, and warned politicians against exploiting the situation for political gains. The Governor expressed confidence that with federal government assurances, a resolution is attainable, and Mazi Kanu’s freedom will be achieved.
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Governor Otti concluded with a reaffirmation of his commitment to resolving the crisis with wisdom, dialogue, and diplomacy, aiming to restore genuine peace to the South East region.
Alex Otti, OFR
Governor, Abia State
November 21, 2025
