Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has criticised the Federal Government’s handling of the case involving the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, following his conviction and sentencing to life imprisonment.
Obi, in a statement posted on his verified X account on Saturday, said the development comes at a time Nigeria is grappling with “severe economic hardship, insecurity, and the consequences of poor governance,” stressing that the judgment may further heighten tension across the country.
According to him, Kanu’s arrest, prolonged detention, and eventual conviction reflect a “failure of leadership” and a misinterpretation of the issues raised by the IPOB leader.
“I have always maintained that Mazi Kanu should never have been arrested,” Obi said.
“For years, I have consistently argued that dialogue, constructive engagement, and inclusive governance offer the path to lasting peace. Coercion becomes necessary only when reason has been exhausted.”
He argued that grievances expressed by Kanu were “not unheard of” and could have been addressed through empathy and meaningful engagement.
“It only required wisdom, empathy, and a willingness to listen,” he noted.
“The government’s approach has only deepened mistrust and created an avoidable distraction at a time when citizens are overwhelmed by harsh economic realities and insecurity.”
The former Anambra governor added that while some insist the law has taken its course, true leadership sometimes goes beyond legalism to pursue political solutions that promote peace and national stability.
“Nations around the world resort to political solutions, negotiated settlements, and even amnesty when legal processes alone cannot serve the broader interest of peace and stability. Nigeria is not an exception.”
Obi likened the handling of Kanu’s case to “a man trapped in a hole who keeps digging deeper,” insisting that the decision worsens Nigeria’s fragile socio-political climate.
He appealed to national leaders to choose reconciliation over confrontation and to pursue justice in a way that strengthens unity.
“If we truly desire a new Nigeria – a united, peaceful, and progressive one – our leaders must choose healing over hostility, reconciliation over retaliation, and dialogue over division.”
Obi urged the Presidency, the Council of State, and respected statesmen to intervene and initiate a more inclusive and lasting solution to the crisis.
“My ultimate call at this time, without prejudice to how anyone feels about the decision of the court, is for us to be optimistic for peace and reconciliation which will come in the end.”
He maintained that only fairness, compassion, and genuine efforts to address underlying grievances can pave the way for a Nigeria where “every citizen feels heard, valued, and safe.”
