Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has stated that the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), should not be turned into a condition for political support from the South-East in the 2027 presidential election. He made this assertion while addressing journalists on Friday in Lagos.
According to Umahi, it is misleading and unfair to hold President Bola Ahmed Tinubu accountable for Kanu’s ongoing incarceration. He emphasized that any conversations concerning the IPOB leader’s release must be based on legal and diplomatic dialogue rather than being used as a political bargaining chip.
“Someone asked me about the issue of Nnamdi Kanu, and I clearly stated that his release should not be tied to the support of the South-East for the President,” Umahi said. “Yes, we are open to discussions concerning his release, but it should not be used as a precondition. After all, President Tinubu is not the one who ordered his arrest or detention.”
Nnamdi Kanu has been in custody since June 2020 after being extradited from Kenya under controversial circumstances. He is currently facing trial on a seven-count charge bordering on treasonable felony, instituted by the Federal Government.
Numerous civil rights groups, political leaders, and community organizations have repeatedly called for his release, citing concerns over his health, human rights, and the need to promote peace and national unity.
Umahi acknowledged the concerns of those calling for Kanu’s release but urged for a more responsible and constructive approach. He insisted that the matter should not be driven by pressure or political blackmail.
“Let us not issue threats or make demands that appear as ultimatums. The path forward should be peaceful engagement and lawful processes,” he stressed.
The Minister also took time to commend President Tinubu’s leadership, stating that the current administration has made substantial progress in rebuilding Nigeria’s economy and infrastructure.
“President Tinubu may not be perfect, but he has taken commendable steps in the right direction. The economic challenges he inherited were enormous, yet he has made reforms that have earned the respect and support of the international community,” he said.
Addressing allegations that the Tinubu administration is marginalizing the South-East in terms of federal appointments and infrastructure, Umahi dismissed such claims as baseless. He challenged critics to evaluate the impact of the administration’s efforts across the country, including in the South-East.
“Those who accuse the President of marginalisation should show us what they themselves have done for the country. President Tinubu has demonstrated fairness in appointments and development projects,” he argued.
Umahi cautioned against politicizing Kanu’s detention and called for unity and maturity in addressing sensitive national issues. He reiterated that the focus should be on justice, dialogue, and national development — not political manipulation.