Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has renewed his call for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, saying there is no justification for the continued detention of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Speaking during an interaction with Nigerians in Washington, D.C., Obi said he had consistently maintained that Kanu should not remain in custody. He argued that expressing opinions or criticising public figures should not be treated as a criminal offence.

Drawing from his experience in politics, Obi noted that politicians are often subjected to criticism and name-calling, stressing that such actions do not warrant imprisonment.

The former Anambra State governor also advocated dialogue as a solution to agitations across the country. According to him, meaningful engagement with aggrieved groups would help government understand their concerns and address the underlying issues driving their demands.

Obi said that if given the opportunity to lead, he would prioritise consultation and discussions with agitators rather than confrontation, adding that dialogue remains the best path to lasting peace.

Kanu is currently serving a life sentence after a Federal High Court in Abuja convicted him in November 2025 on terrorism-related charges, including incitement, membership of a proscribed organisation and alleged involvement in attacks linked to separatist activities in the South-East.

The IPOB leader has appealed the judgment, with his legal team arguing that the trial was unfair and urging the appellate court to overturn both the conviction and sentence.