The political space in Nigeria is once again stirred as Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has spoken on the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and the planned October 20 protest tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow.
The protest, initiated by activist Omoyele Sowore, is scheduled to hold in Abuja and other major cities across Nigeria. Organizers say the march will be peaceful and focused on pressing the Federal Government to obey court orders and release Kanu, who has been in detention since 2021 following his controversial rendition from Kenya.
Obi Calls for Dialogue, Not Detention
Reacting to growing public pressure and media questions, Peter Obi stated that Kanu’s prolonged detention “serves no useful purpose,” insisting that issues surrounding the IPOB leader should be resolved through dialogue and lawful means, not through force or political persecution.
“There was no need for his arrest in the first place. I have always maintained that the rule of law and constructive dialogue remain the best ways to address every form of agitation,” Obi was quoted as saying.
Obi’s comment is seen as his most direct remark yet on the Kanu case, after months of public speculation over his position. His call has also been interpreted as moral backing for the October 20 protest, even though he did not expressly endorse the street action.
Fact-Check and Controversy
Following his remarks, Premium Times published a fact-check clarifying parts of Obi’s statement about court orders regarding Kanu’s release. The newspaper confirmed that while Obi was right in calling for dialogue, his claim that the government is disobeying an existing release order was “factually incorrect and misleading.”
Still, human rights advocates argue that Obi’s intervention has renewed public attention on the legal and humanitarian issues surrounding the IPOB leader’s detention.
Reactions Trail Obi’s Comments
Obi’s position has drawn mixed reactions across Nigeria’s political divide:
- Pro-Kanu supporters praised him for showing empathy and courage, saying his words bring legitimacy to their call for justice.
- Critics within the ruling APC accused him of “playing to the gallery,” alleging that his remarks could embolden separatist elements.
- Civil society groups commended Obi’s balanced tone, describing it as “a voice of reason in a tense national conversation.”
Rights groups like TakeItBack Movement and #RevolutionNow have already reaffirmed their readiness to storm the streets on October 20, insisting that keeping Kanu in detention despite years of court proceedings “amounts to state defiance of justice.”
A Delicate Political Balance
Analysts believe Peter Obi’s statement underscores his attempt to balance moral leadership with political sensitivity. As one of the few politicians with massive youth support across the country, his words carry weight — especially in the Southeast, where emotions over Kanu’s fate run deep.
While he stopped short of calling for mass action, his tone aligns with the wider call for peace, equity, and justice. Observers say Obi’s remarks could push the government toward reconsidering its hard stance or, at least, open the door for dialogue.
Looking Ahead to October 20
As preparations continue for the protest, the Federal Government has yet to officially respond to Obi’s comments or the growing calls for Kanu’s release. Security agencies have, however, warned against “any unlawful assembly or disruption of public order.”
With just days to the scheduled march, the atmosphere remains charged — and all eyes are on both the protesters and the government’s next move. Whether Peter Obi’s words will help bridge the divide or inflame tensions remains to be seen.
