Why I visited Nnamdi Kanu in prison - Otti

Otti and Kanu

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has dismissed suggestions that his recent visit to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, was motivated by political ambition, insisting that the move was guided solely by a commitment to dialogue, peace and responsible governance.

Otti spoke on Friday at the Government House in Umuahia while receiving the leadership of the Abia Diaspora Commission and members of the Abia Global Medical Mission 2025, reacting to a viral video in which a social media commentator criticised his visit to Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre

The governor said differing opinions were natural in a democracy but stressed that disagreement did not automatically invalidate one’s position.

He explained that his engagement with the detained IPOB leader was part of a broader effort to explore peaceful solutions to longstanding issues, not an endorsement of separatist agitation.

Addressing claims that his actions were linked to future political ambitions, Otti categorically ruled out contesting any election after completing his tenure as governor

He said he had repeatedly made his position clear and would retire from public office once his current assignment was fulfilled.

“I have no presidential ambition, no vice-presidential ambition and no senatorial ambition,” the governor said, adding that leadership also requires knowing when to step aside and allow younger people to take over.

On Nnamdi Kanu’s case, Otti revealed that he initiated discussions at the highest level about the IPOB leader’s situation two years ago, stressing that his visit was appropriate given that Kanu is an indigene of Abia State and from Umuahia North Local Government Area.

The governor reiterated his long-standing criticism of Operation Python Dance, saying he had publicly condemned the military operation in earlier writings.

While acknowledging that Kanu’s matter remains before the courts, Otti argued that legal processes do not preclude administrative or dialogue-driven interventions.

He maintained that engaging in dialogue does not amount to supporting the disintegration of Nigeria, adding that conflicts rarely end on battlefields but at negotiation tables.

“I have never seen a war that did not end in negotiation. So why start a war when you will still end up talking?” he said.

Otti further emphasised that his approach was centred on peaceful intervention rather than violence, noting that complex national issues are better resolved through sustained dialogue and engagement.Turning to security, the governor warned that criminal elements had exploited insecurity across the country to attack innocent citizens.

He assured that his administration would continue to pursue peace in Abia State while responding firmly to any acts of violence.

“We will act responsibly as a government, but anyone who brings violence will be firmly confronted,” he said.

Otti reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining safety and stability in Abia, stressing that peace remains critical for economic growth, social stability and the wellbeing of residents and businesses in the state.