Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised the Federal Government over the conviction and life sentence handed to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, describing the development as “unfortunate” and a clear reflection of leadership failure in the country.
In a statement released on his official X handle, Obi said the judgment came at a time when millions of Nigerians are battling economic hardship, deepening insecurity and widespread discontent. According to him, the decision is likely to escalate tensions instead of fostering national healing.
Obi, who has consistently advocated for dialogue and inclusive governance, noted that Kanu’s arrest and prolonged detention were avoidable. He argued that the issues and grievances that gave rise to IPOB’s agitation were neither new nor impossible to address, stressing that leadership should focus on engagement, justice and fairness instead of punitive measures.
“The concerns raised by Kanu were not unheard of, and the issues for which he demanded solutions were not insoluble,” Obi stated. He warned that the life sentence could worsen feelings of marginalisation in the South-East and further deepen the mistrust between citizens and the government.
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday convicted Kanu on seven terrorism-related charges after years of legal battles. The decision has sparked mixed reactions across the country, with some groups praising the ruling while others, especially in the South-East, view it as unfair and provocative.
Obi urged President Bola Tinubu, the Council of State, and respected national figures to intervene to prevent further national division. He called for a more compassionate, dialogue-driven approach to resolving agitations and strengthening the unity of the country.
The former governor emphasised that true leadership requires listening to grievances, pursuing justice, and building a nation where all citizens feel heard and included.
As reactions continue to pour in, attention now shifts to possible appeals by Kanu’s legal team and the broader implications of the judgment on national cohesion and security in the South-East.