FG Open to Releasing Nnamdi Kanu—But Not as a Political Bargain, Says Minister.

FG Open to Releasing Nnamdi Kanu—But Not as a Political Bargain, Says Minister.

Nigeria -Politics

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In a major development, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, revealed that the Federal Government is willing to negotiate the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained IPOB leader.

Speaking to journalists in Lagos on July 5, 2025, Umahi emphasized that while dialogue is possible, Kanu’s release should not be used as a condition for political support, especially from the South-East.

Kanu has been in detention since 2021 after being rearrested in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria.

His continued detention has sparked protests and calls for a political solution. Umahi praised President Tinubu as a “listening leader” and expressed hope that Kanu’s release would come through “divine grace and lawful dialogue,” not political pressure.

Legal experts and civil society groups are watching closely, as this could mark a turning point in resolving long-standing tensions between the federal government and pro-Biafra movements.