Obey Court Order and Release Nnamdi Kanu – Obi Tells Tinubu

Oluwasegun SanusiJune 30, 20242 Mins read593

Former governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has called on President Bola Tinubu to release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, along with other individuals still in detention.

Obi made this appeal while addressing reporters in Onitsha on Saturday, emphasising the necessity of adhering to the rule of law.

Obi questioned the continued detention of Kanu, especially given that the court had previously granted him bail.

He stated, “Government must obey the law as the rule of law is an intrinsic asset we must cherish and live with. And I have always said that I will discuss with every agitator.”

He further urged the government to ensure that all individuals in similar conditions are released and engaged in dialogue. We are a democratic nation, and we should not be doing things that are arbitrary and not within the law, Obi added.

Highlighting the urgent need for improved security, Obi called on Nigerian leaders to double their efforts in ensuring the safety of lives and property. “The primary work of government is the security of lives and property,” he stated. “Security is the foundation on which people can live in any nation because no one can stay in an insecure place.”

Obi also expressed concern over the current state of insecurity in Nigeria, noting the frequent reports of killings, abductions, and kidnappings that have made the country one of the most insecure places in the world. He stressed that this situation requires urgent attention.

Addressing the specific challenges in the South East, Obi advised the region’s governors to collaborate more effectively to tackle insecurity.

“As I thank the governments in the zone for their efforts, there is a need to do more. I want our governors to come together as a family to solve this problem,” he said.

Obi also suggested that former governors and other experienced individuals be involved in discussions to chart a way forward.

On the topic of protests, Obi expressed his support for peaceful demonstrations but condemned riots and the destruction of government property.

I’m against the destruction of government assets and property because it is still our scarce resources that we are going to use to repair them, he said.

He called for the release of all those detained for participating in protests, including EndSARS protesters, emphasising the importance of freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest in a democratic society.