Otti Speaks Out: The Real Reason Behind My Visit To Nnamdi Kanu

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has dismissed allegations that his recent visit to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), at the Sokoto Correctional Centre was politically motivated. He emphasized that the trip was aimed at fostering dialogue and promoting peace, not pursuing any political ambition.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Otti made the remarks on Friday while receiving members of the Abia Diaspora Commission and the medical team of the Abia Global Medical Mission 2025 at Government House, Umuahia. The governor was responding to a video circulating on social media, in which a critic questioned the purpose of his visit to Kanu. Otti defended the engagement, insisting it was grounded in constructive dialogue and peaceful intervention.

He also stressed that differing viewpoints, such as those in the video, are normal in a democratic society.

Addressing speculation about his political future, Otti reiterated that he has no intentions of seeking office after completing his tenure as governor.

“One of the points raised in the video concerned my post-governorship ambitions. I have stated this before, and I will say it again: after completing my tenure as governor, I will retire from public office. I have no presidential, vice-presidential, or senatorial ambitions. I came into this office with a mission, and once that mission is fulfilled, I will step aside and give way to younger leaders,” he said.

Otti also dismissed suggestions linking his actions to the notion of an “Igbo presidency,” calling such claims baseless. “If anyone bases their argument on that assumption, it has already collapsed. My name will not appear on any ballot, though your children and mine are free to contest,” he added.

On his engagement with Kanu, Otti described it as part of ongoing efforts to resolve complex issues surrounding the IPOB leader. “Exactly 24 months ago, I initiated discussions at the highest level concerning Nnamdi Kanu. Visiting him was the right step because he is from my state, specifically Umuahia North Local Government Area,” he explained.

Condemning Past Military Operations, Urging Legal Processes
Otti reiterated his condemnation of Operation Python Dance, highlighting that he had criticized the military action in previous writings. He clarified that while Kanu’s case remains before the courts, administrative dialogue is possible and does not imply support for disintegration.

“When an issue is under legal scrutiny, there is still an administrative window, which is where I am coming from. I am not competent to challenge the judiciary; I am not a lawyer. If the court has ruled, that is its decision, yet there remains room for appeal, potentially up to the Supreme Court,” he stated.

Otti emphasized his opposition to violent agitation, stressing that conflicts are best resolved through negotiation. “I have never seen a war that did not end in negotiation. So why start a war when you will eventually engage in dialogue?” he asked. He described himself as “an apostle of dialogue, not war,” advocating for peaceful solutions.

Regarding broader security concerns, Otti warned that ongoing insecurity in parts of Nigeria has been exploited by criminals to target innocent citizens. “We will continue to take all measures necessary to maintain peace in this state. There are areas where people cannot move freely, and that is unacceptable. Some are taking advantage of this situation to commit acts of violence. As I have told those I am negotiating with, any violence here will be met with firm action—but government must act responsibly,” he said.

The governor reaffirmed his commitment to safety and stability in Abia, noting that peace is crucial for business growth and the wellbeing of residents. He urged stakeholders to support dialogue-driven approaches, stressing that the state’s development relies on a secure environment.

Stay connected via Google News

Follow us for the latest travel updates and guides.