Govenor Soludu x Nnamdi Kanu

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has stated that the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is unrelated to the security situation in the South-East.

During a media chat marking his third anniversary in office, Soludo emphasised that while he supports Kanu’s release, it should be viewed separately from the region’s insecurity. He explained that his advocacy is aimed at involving Kanu in discussions about the long-term future of the Igbo people, not as a solution to criminal activities in the region.

“For the criminals—kidnappers and bandits—we have extended an olive branch, offering rehabilitation and empowerment. But those who refuse will be dealt with accordingly,” he said.

Soludo also pointed to Simon Ekpa, who claims to be IPOB’s leader in Kanu’s absence, accusing him of fueling violence for personal gain. He noted that Ekpa and his group have turned the region into a “killing spree” and dismissed him as a fraudster extorting money from unsuspecting people.

Despite ongoing calls for Kanu’s release, Soludo maintains that insecurity in the South-East must be tackled independently.