Peter Obi has condemned the Federal Government’s handling of Nnamdi Kanu’s case, warning that the IPOB leader’s conviction could worsen national tensions. He urged dialogue and a political solution instead of coercion.
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi reacted to the conviction and life sentence handed to IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
In a statement posted on his official X account, Obi described the development as “an avoidable escalation” that comes at a time when Nigeria is already grappling with economic hardship, insecurity, and widening national divisions.
Obi faulted the Federal Government’s approach, insisting that Kanu “should never have been arrested” and that his detention and conviction represent “a failure of leadership and a misunderstanding of the issues at stake.” He argued that the concerns raised by Kanu were not unheard of, and that the government missed an opportunity to address them through constructive engagement.
Obi emphasized that dialogue, inclusive governance, and reconciliation remain the most effective ways to resolve grievances. He warned that coercion and punitive measures would only aggravate tensions.
“The news of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s conviction should compel every well-meaning Nigerian to pause and reflect. Rather than calming the tension in the land, the judgment could only aggravate it,” Obi said.
He urged the Federal Government to pursue a political solution and convene dialogue with stakeholders to ease tensions in the South-East and across Nigeria.
Kanu was convicted on all seven counts of terrorism-related charges, with Justice James Omotosho describing him as an “international terrorist.” The ruling has sparked widespread debate, with critics warning that the decision could deepen divisions and fuel unrest.
Obi’s intervention adds to growing calls for a non-military, political approach to resolving the crisis, echoing sentiments from civil society groups and regional leaders who argue that reconciliation and dialogue are essential to restoring peace.
