Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has renewed his call for a political solution to the ongoing detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), emphasizing that such an approach remains the most sustainable path forward for the Southeast region.
In a statewide broadcast on Tuesday, Mbah reiterated his long-held stance on the matter, linking it directly to his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The governor, who assumed office in May 2023, described the timing as a pivotal opportunity for Southeast stakeholders to unify their efforts.
“With this now, I think it is also an opportunity for the South-East to consolidate our position and make a very strong case for this to be resolved politically,” Mbah stated, urging collective action to engage federal authorities.
Kanu, 57, has been held in custody by the Department of State Services (DSS) since his dramatic re-arrest and extradition from Kenya in June 2021.
The IPOB leader faces a seven-count charge related to alleged terrorism activities, a case that has sparked international outcry and legal battles.
Despite multiple court orders granting him bail, most recently in October 2022 by the Court of Appeal, which was later overturned by the Supreme Court in December 2023, Kanu remains incarcerated, fueling accusations of judicial overreach and human rights violations.
His supporters argue that his agitation for Igbo self-determination has been criminalized, while critics view IPOB’s activities as destabilizing.
Mbah, drawing from his early interactions with the presidency, recalled raising Kanu’s plight just a week into his tenure.
“It took barely a week after I assumed office that I had a meeting with the President, and I was very specific when I came out to address the press that I also raised the issue of Nnamdi Kanu with the President,” he said.
Insisting on consistency in his advocacy, Mbah added, “I believe strongly that the Nnamdi Kanu problem is going to be solved politically.”
He acknowledged the complexities involved, noting, “First of all, we need to accept the concept that this is the right thing to do.
“Then, the details of implementation will be worked out because there will certainly be details. It is not something you can possibly outline now, but it’s for us to even accept the concept that this is the way to move forward.”
The governor’s remarks come against a backdrop of escalating tensions in the Southeast, where Kanu’s detention has been linked to heightened insecurity, economic disruptions, and the “Monday sit-at-home” orders enforced by IPOB factions.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
