The 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has thrown his support behind calls for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.

Recall that activist Omoyele Sowore had earlier announced 20th October as date for protest at Aso Villa for the release of Kanu.

Speaking on Wednesday during a visit to LEA Primary School, Kapwa, Abuja, Obi described the arrest as irrelevant.

He reiterated his long-held position that dialogue, not detention, remains the only sustainable solution to separatist agitations.

When asked by journalists for his position on Sowore’s agitation for Kanu’s release, Obi said, “I’ve always been consistent on Nnamdi Kanu’s situation. There was no need for his arrest in the first place,” Obi said. “And I’ve always said that for me, I will consult, negotiate, and discuss with anybody who is agitating. I said it clearly, and I remain there.”

Obi commended Sowore and others calling for Kanu’s release, noting that peaceful dialogue was key to resolving such crises.

“I thank those who are actually trying to do or say what we’ve been saying for a long time. Go and check what I’ve said before 2020, 2022, and even 2024. Now that it has gone to court, the rules should be followed, not just for Nnamdi Kanu, but for all agitators across the nation,” he added.

“There’s nothing wrong with anybody agitating or saying let’s have a dialogue with them. And whatever we do with them, let’s follow the rules. So, I thank the organisers and those who are involved.”

Obi’s remarks come days after Sowore, the 2023 African Action Congress presidential candidate, announced plans to lead a nationwide protest tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow on October 20 in Abuja.