President Almed Bola Tinubu has revealed that efforts by his government to release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from prison are being frustrated by the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma.
Tinubu maintained that he promised to willingly release Mazi Kanu from prison on assumption of office after addressing Igbo leaders during his electioneering campaign in Lagos State, led by the late President General of Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo, Prof George Obiozor, expressing surprise how Senator Uzodinma was opposed to the decision.
He made this disclosure Monday at State House, Abuja while addressing Igbo business community who called on him to discuss tax increment on importation of goods.
“Uzodinma told me the dangers of releasing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu now that Governorship election of Imo state is at the corner. My intention was to order for his release few weeks ago when our brother, Igboho was released, but became surprised when the Governor of Imo state approached me to reverse my decision to do so.
“My reason to even attempt to release him is to enable the people of the South East geopolitical zone to have peace. The zone has witnessed major security challenges where armed security militia, ESN has killed several souls”, the President said.
Mazi Kanu has been facing charges of treasonable felony against the state after he was arrested in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria for prosecution.