Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has clarified that the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is not directly linked to the security challenges in the South-East.
Speaking during a media chat marking his third anniversary in office, Soludo stated, “The release of Nnamdi Kanu is different from the issue of security. I separate the two; I don’t link them. For me, Kanu’s release is about having a conversation for the long-term future of the Igbo people, which is a separate issue.”
Despite ongoing calls for Kanu’s release, the IPOB leader has remained in detention for nearly five years following his arrest in Kenya by the Nigerian government. While some South-East stakeholders believe his release could ease regional tensions, Soludo emphasized that addressing security concerns requires a different approach.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s efforts to curb criminal activities in the region, stating, “We have offered the criminals an olive branch—come out, we will train you, we will empower you, we will rehabilitate you. If you refuse, we will take you out.”
Soludo also highlighted the role of Simon Ekpa, who has positioned himself as IPOB’s leader since Kanu’s detention. Ekpa, arrested in Finland last year on terrorism-related charges, has been accused of inciting violence in the South-East. The governor questioned Ekpa’s motives, alleging that his actions were financially driven: “I have no idea what Ekpa is pursuing other than to swindle people for money.”
While advocating for Kanu’s release, Soludo remains firm on tackling insecurity in the South-East through rehabilitation and decisive action against criminal elements.