Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has dismissed claims that South East governors have abandoned the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Speaking during a media parley on Thursday night in Umuahia, Otti said the governors are actively engaging relevant authorities to secure Kanu’s release, but noted that not all efforts can be made public.
“Some of the engagements and assurances we have received are not for public consumption since it may derail the process. But you can take it for granted that, as his Governor, I’m at the forefront of ensuring he comes back home. All the South East governors are together in this,” Otti stated.
His comments came a day after Igbo elders from across the region staged a protest at Government House, Umuahia, over Kanu’s continued detention. The elders accused political leaders of neglect and urged Otti to rally his colleagues to engage President Bola Tinubu on the matter.
Otti expressed optimism that ongoing engagements would produce positive outcomes.
Communal Clashes
The governor also addressed recurring clashes between Itu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State and neighbouring communities in Cross River, which have displaced several residents.
He attributed the crisis to unverified reports of natural resources, particularly limestone, in the disputed area. According to him, Abia’s Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, has been meeting with counterparts from Cross River and Akwa Ibom States in Abuja to find a lasting solution.
“So please reassure the displaced people that they are not abandoned and that very soon they will return to their ancestral homes,” Otti said.
Governance and Criticism
Reiterating his commitment to developing Abia, Otti vowed not to succumb to blackmail or politically motivated attacks. He said his administration welcomes constructive criticism but would not be distracted by mischief or distortions of facts.
