Mnadi Kanu Detention Not Political, Says Umahi
Federal Government has expressed openness to negotiating the release of Mnadi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State Governor, Engr. Dave Umahi, made this disclosure during a media interaction in Lagos on Friday night. He emphasized that Mnadi Kanu’s case should not serve as a tool for political negotiation.
“Someone asked me about Mnadi Kanu, and I explained that his issue should not be used as a condition for the South-East to support the president. While we are prepared to discuss his release, no one should present it as a political demand because the president isn’t responsible for his detention,” Umahi stated.
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He applauded President Bola Tinubu’s leadership approach, referring to him as a responsive and pragmatic leader. Umahi expressed optimism that Mnadi Kanu’s freedom would be realized through divine intervention and meaningful dialogue, not through political pressure.
The minister noted that Tinubu’s economic reforms had gained international backing, with tangible support for national projects.
Responding to concerns about marginalisation in federal appointments, Umahi countered the claims, insisting that Tinubu had offered the South-East region more representation than many previous administrations.
According to him, “The South-East now enjoys greater inclusion in federal affairs. We are progressing and won’t look back.”
Umahi dismissed any personal presidential ambition in 2027, affirming his commitment to President Tinubu’s administration and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He called on South-East political figures to set aside partisan differences and rally behind the federal government’s developmental plans.
