world
South-East Leaders Seek Political Solution for Nnamdi Kanu Release, Minister Says
Minister David Umahi said on 22 June 2026 that regional leaders are pursuing political options to free detained IPOB figure Nnamdi Kanu. He also stated Ebonyi State backs President Bola Tinubu and is not aligned with the Obedient Movement.
thehindu.comAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
South-East leaders are exploring political solutions to secure the release of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu while maintaining peace in the region, Minister of Works Senator David Umahi said on 22 June 2026. Umahi made the remarks during an inspection of Section II of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project in Epe, Lagos State.
He added that Ebonyi State is not aligned with the Obedient Movement and that both the state and the South-East continue to support President Bola Tinubu.
Umahi stated that no politician could attain the presidency through deception and that truth, accountability and a verifiable record of service define credible leadership. He described reports circulating on social media that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi had pledged to halt some of President Tinubu's legacy infrastructure projects if elected as regrettable.
"When my brother, Peter Obi, said, as I saw on social media, that he would stop the legacy projects, that was a very painful statement.
But I know Nigerians will reject that position," Umahi said. The minister said governors of the South-East are working to ensure peace while seeking political ways to assist Kanu. He accused Obi of failing to address insecurity and the Monday sit-at-home order in parts of the region.
Umahi said Ebonyi State had endorsed President Tinubu's leadership and challenged members of the Obedient Movement to compare the records of Tinubu and Obi as governors of Lagos and Anambra states.
