Governor Alex Otti of Abia says the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, may appeal his conviction, but he is pursuing an agreed strategy to secure his release.

A statement on Saturday by Mr Otti’s media aide, Ferdinand Ekeoma, confirmed the governor’s ongoing efforts.

“While Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is free to appeal his conviction, I’m happy to inform you that I have activated and will continue to work on the already agreed strategy until his freedom is secured,” the governor said.

Mr Otti said he is working with well-meaning Nigerians committed to resolving the issue through diplomacy and dialogue with the federal government.

He said he engaged top authorities from December 22, 2023, to promote an alternative resolution to the prolonged trial.

According to him, some agreements depended on the swift determination of the case at the Federal High Court.

He said the delayed judgment slowed progress, but its delivery now allows the alternative plan to advance.

Mr Otti added that he explained the strategy to Mr Kanu during a visit to him in the SSS’ custody earlier in 2025.

He blamed poor handling of IPOB’s early activities for Mr Kanu’s current predicament.

The governor said such errors must not persist because they could create a larger security problem for the state.

He urged residents to remain calm and avoid statements or actions that may heighten fear or disrupt ongoing engagements.

Mr Otti said he is assured by the federal government that a resolution is close and Kanu will regain his freedom.

He warned politicians against exploiting Mr Kanu’s ordeal for “petty and dirty politics” and urged cooperation for his release.

Mr Otti reaffirmed his commitment to resolving the issue through dialogue and diplomacy and to restoring peace in the South-East.

(NAN)