Nnamdi Kanu release negotiation open, says FG, but warns it should not be used as political leverage. Umahi affirms Tinubu’s support in South East

[dropcap]N[/dropcap]namdi Kanu release negotiation is possible, but it should not be made a political condition, the Federal Government said on Friday.

Also read: Federal Government closes case in Nnamdi Kanu treason trial

Senator Dave Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, made this clear while addressing journalists in Lagos.

Speaking firmly, Umahi stated that the South East’s support for President Bola Tinubu is not contingent on the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.

He dismissed widespread claims suggesting otherwise and emphasised that dialogue, not political pressure, would be the path forward.

“Somebody asked me about Nnamdi Kanu, and I said his matter is not a condition for the South East to support the President,” Umahi declared.

“We are willing to negotiate his release, but no one should make it a condition because the President did not put him there.”

The minister praised President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a “listening leader” who has demonstrated significant economic reforms that have attracted global attention.

According to Umahi, the international community’s confidence in Nigeria is growing because of Tinubu’s policies.

“President Tinubu may not be perfect, but he is doing most things right,” Umahi said. “Look at where he picked up the economy from.

The international community has confidence in his reforms. That is why we are getting support for our projects.”

Umahi reiterated that the South East is committed to supporting Tinubu beyond 2027 and is already seeing tangible developments in the region.

He pointed to key federal infrastructure projects, including roads and highways, that had been neglected under previous administrations but are now receiving attention.

He said, “There are numerous road rehabilitation works and infrastructure projects across the South East. These are things we have long waited for. This administration is delivering.”

When questioned about accusations of marginalisation of the South East in federal appointments, the minister dismissed such claims.

He argued that the Tinubu administration had done more for the region in just over a year than many past governments.

“Those talking about marginalisation should take a look around. Even opposition governors in the South East are working well with the President,” Umahi noted.

He called on political leaders in the region to come together and prioritise unity over division, regardless of party lines. He said collective action would benefit the zone more than fragmented politics.

Umahi also addressed speculations regarding his political ambitions for 2027. There have been rumours suggesting he might run for the presidency, but he firmly shut them down.

“I will not run. I will work for my boss, President Tinubu,” he clarified. “APC is the path to achieving what we want. The South East now has a voice at the centre. We will not return to Egypt.”

Nnamdi Kanu release negotiation, according to Umahi, will be pursued through peaceful and legal processes. He suggested that divine grace and calm dialogue, not threats or ultimatums, would ultimately lead to a resolution.

The comments from the minister come amid increased discussion around Kanu’s detention and its perceived impact on political support from the South East.

The IPOB leader has been held by Nigerian authorities since 2021, following his extradition from Kenya.

The Federal Government maintains that his case remains a judicial matter. However, with rising calls for peace and reconciliation, the prospect of negotiation, as hinted by Umahi, signals a possible softening of stance from Abuja.

Also read: IPOB calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s release as prisoner of conscience

Nnamdi Kanu release negotiation continues to stir strong emotions across Nigeria, especially in the South East. But Umahi’s statements may help reshape the national conversation from confrontation to cooperation.