MAZI NNAMDI KANU: GOVERNOR ALEX OTTI URGES CALM, PROMISES DIPLOMATIC PUSH FOR FREEDOM AFTER LIFE SENTENCE

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, November 20, 2025, found Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, a citizen of Abia State and leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), guilty of terrorism-related offences and sentenced him to life imprisonment. The judgment has sent shockwaves through Abia State and beyond, leaving many in mourning.

In reaction, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, described the development as painful but reiterated his commitment to resolving the matter through dialogue and diplomacy.

Governor Otti recalled the 2017 military invasion of Mazi Kanu’s family home in Afaraukwu, Umuahia, which resulted in the destruction of property and loss of lives. He condemned the military action, stating that dialogue should have been the preferred approach from the outset. In his ThisDay column eight days after the invasion, titled “Operation Python Dance: Killing a Fly With a Sledgehammer”, Otti had criticized the government’s heavy-handed approach and proposed strategies to de-escalate tension and unite the nation.

According to Governor Otti, “Leadership requires emotional intelligence, restraint, and tolerance rather than force and violence.”

He stressed that the mismanagement of the IPOB issue at its early stages contributed to the current situation, and urged that it must not be allowed to escalate further.

Governor Otti revealed that he personally engaged federal authorities from December 22, 2023, on alternative resolution strategies for the matter.

“Some agreements were made, which were dependent on quick dispensation of the matter at the Federal High Court. Unfortunately, the matter dragged until this time,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the resolution strategy would now proceed following the court judgment and assured that he had discussed this approach with Mazi Kanu during his earlier visit to the DSS custody.

While Mazi Kanu retains the right to appeal, Governor Otti emphasized that he has activated and will continue to pursue the agreed strategy to secure his freedom. He welcomed collaboration with other well-meaning Nigerians committed to a peaceful resolution through dialogue with the federal government.

Governor Otti appealed to the public to remain calm, warning against statements or actions that could incite fear, violence, or insecurity. He also cautioned politicians against exploiting the situation for petty political gains, urging instead for collective efforts toward securing Mazi Kanu’s release.

In his closing remarks, Governor Otti reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to solving the issue with wisdom, diplomacy, and dialogue, aiming to restore lasting peace to the South East.