Obasanjo denies discussing Nnamdi Kanu’s release with South East Govs

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has refuted reports that he discussed the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), with South East governors during a meeting in Enugu on Tuesday.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo clarified that the meeting focused on regional development issues, including security, infrastructure, and economic cooperation.

Obasanjo stated, “The issue of Nnamdi Kanu was not on the agenda and was not discussed in my presence.”

He emphasised that the meeting was at his invitation and that of Emeka Anyaoku, a former Commonwealth Secretary-General, to discuss regional development issues.

The denial comes after Abia Governor Alex Otti’s post on X (formerly Twitter), which suggested that Obasanjo joined the governors in deciding to engage the Federal Government over Kanu’s case. However, Obasanjo’s statement contradicts this, stating that Kanu’s release was not discussed.

The South East Governors’ meeting had resolved to visit President Bola Tinubu to discuss pressing concerns affecting the region and engage with the Federal Government to secure Kanu’s release. Kanu’s detention has been a contentious issue in the region, with many calling for his release.

In the past, Kanu’s arrest and detention have sparked tensions and protests in the South East. The IPOB leader is facing trial for alleged treason and terrorism-related offences.