The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has commended Alex Otti, governor of Abia State, and Ahmad Aliyu, governor of Sokoto State, for their surprise visit to Nnamdi Kanu — describing the gesture as “historic” and “surprising.” The group released a statement via its spokesman, arguing the visit underscores the gravity of what it calls Kanu’s unjust treatment.

What happened — governors visit Kanu in Sokoto

On Sunday, Alex Otti visited Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre, shortly after the court sentenced him to life imprisonment. Otti was accompanied by Kanu’s younger brother, state officials from Abia, and representatives of the Sokoto government. The visit aimed to reassure Kanu that efforts to secure his release remain ongoing.

During the visit, Otti told Kanu to remain “calm and strong,” and assured him that the administrative channels he had initiated over two years prior had been intensified. He expressed confidence that the matter would eventually be resolved outside court, and informed Kanu that the Sultan of Sokoto shares the view that tensions must de-escalate.

Kanu reportedly responded with gratitude, praising Otti for fulfilling his promise. He also commended the governor’s performance in Abia State, indicating respect for what he described as developmental strides in Kanu’s home region.

IPOB reaction — a symbolic moment amid alleged injustice

In its statement, IPOB condemned what it described as Kanu’s “extraordinary rendition, extended detention, unlawful trial, life sentence, and cruel transfer to Sokoto prison.” The group accused the Federal Government of using state security forces to stage false-flag operations in the South-East — meant to manufacture evidence of violence and terrorism against IPOB and its leader. Vanguard News

IPOB insists that Kanu remains a “prisoner of conscience,” arguing that no offence under local or international law justified his life sentence. The group pledged that the injustice would not go unnoticed, and demanded an independent investigation into what it described as a “biased legal system.”

The organisation lauded the governors’ visit as proof that, despite attempts to isolate or silence their leader, his support remains solid. IPOB asserted that relocating Kanu to Sokoto was intended to break his spirit — but declared that true supporters remain committed to the cause of self-determination and justice.