2027 Presidency: Obi says holding Nnamdi Kanu is meaningless, calls for peace talks

Peter Obi, a top presidential aspirant for the 2027 general elections, has criticised the Nigerian government for keeping Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in detention for so long.

Obi said it does not make sense to continue holding him without finding a political solution.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi stated that he does not see any reason why Kanu is still in custody.

According to him, leaders should be focused on solving problems that affect ordinary Nigerians instead of punishing people for speaking out.

He said:

“For every person in such situations, I always ask – why are they still being held? It doesn’t make sense to me.

Some people say it is because he used vulgar or insulting words against the government. I haven’t seen where that should be enough reason to keep someone locked up.

Even if he called leaders bad names, it doesn’t bother me. If I become president tomorrow and people call me thief or idiot, which they already do, it won’t disturb me.”

Peter Obi explained that as a leader, his main duty is to make life better for the masses.

“My job is to make sure the common man has food on his table, access to healthcare, and good education for his children,” he said.

When asked if he would approach similar issues across the country the same way, Obi said he would always seek dialogue first to resolve problems peacefully before using force if necessary.

He explained:

“If there are people causing insecurity, like a bandit operating in the North East, I will first try to talk to him. That is just to create a link and tell him enough is enough. After that, I will take decisive and strong actions to end the problem.”

Peter Obi further said he believes that dialogue and political solutions are better than violence, especially in a country like Nigeria where many people are already suffering due to poverty and insecurity.

He promised that if elected in 2027, he would prioritise peaceful resolutions to national crises, while also enforcing the law to protect lives and property.