In a significant development aimed at strengthening ongoing dialogue and de-escalating long-standing tensions, the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, on Friday paid a courtesy visit to the Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Sokoto Correctional Centre.
The visit, described by observers as both symbolic and strategic, underscores Governor Otti’s sustained commitment to peaceful resolution, constructive engagement, and the overall stability of the nation.
During the closed-door interaction, Governor Otti urged Mazi Kanu to remain strong and hopeful, reassuring him that the engagements and back-channel discussions initiated over two years ago have not only continued but intensified despite recent developments. The Governor emphasised that efforts were underway to resolve the matter administratively, expressing confidence that Kanu would regain his freedom in due course.
Governor Otti also revealed that the Sultan of Sokoto shared his views on the need for peace, reconciliation, and Kanu’s eventual release. In a lighter moment, the Governor narrated that the Sultan jokingly referred to Kanu as “his subject” and hinted at “turbanning” him—an amusing remark that reportedly lifted Kanu’s spirits and drew hearty laughter from the IPOB leader.
Visibly in high spirits, Mazi Kanu expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for the visit, noting that he was not surprised by the Governor’s swift response given similar gestures in the past. He lauded Otti’s performance in Abia State, likening his developmental strides to those of the revered late Dee Sam Mbakwe, whose legacy remains deeply etched in the hearts of the people of the old Imo State. Kanu encouraged Otti to remain steadfast in delivering good governance and prioritizing the welfare of the people.
Reaffirming his own commitment, Kanu stated that his interest has always been good governance and the progress of the people, offering prayers for divine guidance and continued success for the Otti administration.
Governor Otti was accompanied on the visit by the Abia State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma; and a delegation of Sokoto State government officials, including commissioners and advisers. Mazi Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, was also present during the visit.
The visit marks another step in Governor Otti’s efforts to foster dialogue, promote national unity, and advance peaceful solutions to sensitive national issues.
