Governor Alex Otti says South East governors are actively engaging authorities to secure Nnamdi Kanu’s release while also tackling communal crises in Abia.
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has assured that South East governors are actively working with relevant authorities to secure the release of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Speaking during a media parley in Umuahia on Thursday night, Otti dismissed claims that regional leaders had abandoned Kanu, stressing that some negotiations could not be made public.
“Some of the engagements and assurances we have received are not for public consumption since it may derail the process. But you can take it for granted that, as his Governor, I’m at the forefront of ensuring he comes back home. All the South East governors are together in this,” Otti said.
His comments came a day after Igbo elders staged a protest at Government House, Umuahia, accusing political leaders of neglecting Kanu and urging Otti to rally colleagues to engage President Bola Tinubu. Otti expressed optimism that the ongoing efforts would yield results.
On the recurring communal clashes between Itu in Abia’s Arochukwu LGA and Cross River communities, Otti said his administration, alongside neighbouring states, is working to restore peace. He linked the violence to disputes over suspected limestone deposits, noting that Abia’s Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu is leading peace talks in Abuja.
Otti also reaffirmed his resolve to remain focused on governance, promising to welcome constructive criticism while resisting blackmail and politically motivated attacks.