Governor Alex Otti of Abia State visited IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, assuring him that efforts to secure his release are ongoing and have intensified.

In a statement by Otti’s media adviser, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the governor urged Kanu to remain calm and strong, explaining that the processes he began over two years ago to resolve the matter have been “heightened,” despite recent challenges.

Otti, who was accompanied by Abia State Attorney General Ikechukwu Uwanna (SAN), Kanu’s brother Prince Emmanuel Kanu, and senior Sokoto State officials, told Kanu that the issue would be resolved “administratively,” expressing optimism about his eventual freedom. He also noted that the Sultan of Sokoto supports the call for Kanu’s release and broader efforts to reduce regional tensions.

Kanu reportedly received the delegation in high spirits, expressing gratitude for the visit. He emphasized that his main concern is good governance and the welfare of the people, and he prayed for God’s guidance for Otti and his administration.

The Abia State government added that Kanu was cheerful throughout the meeting and appreciative of ongoing efforts regarding his situation.

Following Kanu’s sentencing to life imprisonment on terrorism-related charges, Governor Otti had earlier disclosed that initiatives to secure his release had already been quietly set in motion during the trial.