Peter Obi says the arrest, long detention, and fresh conviction of Nnamdi Kanu reflect a deep failure of leadership and a mismanagement of issues that required dialogue, not force
In a statement released through his media aide, Ibrahim Umar, Obi said the development should make Nigerians stop and think, coming at a time when the country is battling economic hardship, worsening insecurity, and the weight of poor governance.
Umar quoted him as saying the news should “compel every well-meaning Nigerian to pause and reflect, especially at a time like this.”
He maintained that Kanu should never have been arrested, describing the entire process as an approach that heightened tensions instead of calming them. According to him, the issues Kanu raised were not new, not impossible to solve, and required empathy and meaningful engagement rather than coercion.
Obi argued that functioning societies tackle legitimate grievances through reforms, dialogue, and inclusive leadership—methods he believes the government did not properly employ. He added, “Coercion becomes necessary only when reason has been exhausted. In this case, reason was not fully explored, if at all.”
He acknowledged that some Nigerians may insist the legal process has simply run its course, but stressed that leadership often extends beyond the rigid application of the law. He pointed to countries around the world where governments embrace political solutions, negotiated outcomes, and even amnesty when judicial decisions alone threaten national unity. In his view, Nigeria should follow the same path.
Obi compared the government’s approach to “a man trapped in a hole who continues digging instead of seeking a way out,” warning that such tactics only deepen mistrust and worsen an already fragile situation.
He appealed for calm and urged the Presidency, the Council of State, and elder statesmen to take concrete steps toward peace. He stressed that the country must embrace healing rather than hostility, reconciliation instead of retaliation, and dialogue over division.
Obi ended on a hopeful note, expressing confidence that peace and reconciliation can still prevail if the nation chooses justice, fairness, and compassion.
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