In a recent address in Onitsha, Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, called on President Bola Tinubu to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. Obi highlighted that the court had already granted Kanu bail, and there was no justification for his continued detention.

Emphasizing the importance of the rule of law, Obi stated,

“Government must obey the law as the rule of law is an intrinsic asset that we must cherish and live with. I plead with the government to ensure that all those who are in similar conditions are released and discussed with. We are a democratic nation and should not be doing things that are arbitrary and not within the law.”

Obi also stressed the critical role of security in Nigeria, stating that the primary duty of any government is to secure the lives and property of its citizens. He expressed concern over the rising insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the South East, and urged local governors to collaborate more effectively to tackle the issue. “I want our governors to come together as a family to solve this problem. They can even invite those of us who had been there to interact with them to chart the way forward,” Obi advised.

Addressing the issue of protests, Obi supported the right to peaceful protest but condemned riots and the destruction of government property.

“Peaceful protest is allowed, but it must be for a reason and not personal interest of some people. It must be properly articulated and properly directed,”

he said.

On the potential formation of a mega party, Obi expressed his focus on alleviating poverty and hunger in Nigeria. He emphasized that his primary concern is improving the lives of Nigerians, stating,

“Our people are dying of hunger. How do we make life more conducive for the poor Nigerian? How do we make our people earn more money? How do we pull people out of poverty? That should be our concern, and not forming a mega party.”

Obi’s remarks underscore the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, upholding the rule of law, and prioritizing the well-being of its citizens