According to a report by the Punch Newspaper, Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential aspirant, has asked President Bola Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu, the incarcerated leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), alongside other detained freedom fighters.
Obi said that the lengthy incarceration of the IPOB leader lacks any rationale, particularly since he has been exonerated by the judiciary.
While addressing journalists on Saturday in Onitsha, Anambra State, the 2023 presidential candidate implored leaders to amplify efforts in mitigating insecurity.
He cautioned that without prompt intervention, the nation could descend into chaos.
In his address, Peter Obi said in regard to Nnamdi Kanu, "I don’t see any reason for his continuous detention, especially as the courts have granted him bail. The government must obey the court.
“The rule of law is an intricate asset that we must cherish and live with. I use this opportunity to plead with the Federal Government to ensure that all those who are in similar conditions are released and discussed."
Peter Obi went on to say that Nigeria is a democracy and must avoid arbitrary actions that contravene the law.
He stated that the escalating insecurity in the country is propelling Nigeria towards the brink of a failed state, necessitating immediate and decisive measures to prevent this outcome.
Peter Obi said that he opposes riots or the destruction of government assets and property, as repairing them would deplete the country's already scarce resources.
However, he said that he supports peaceful protests.
According to Peter Obi, peaceful protests are permissible, provided they are for a just cause and not driven by personal interests to satisfy specific agendas and are well-conceived and properly directed.