South-East Leaders Explore Political Path to Resolve Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention, Says Umahi

Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has revealed that political and regional leaders in the South-East are engaging stakeholders and exploring diplomatic solutions aimed at securing the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Umahi made the disclosure while inspecting ongoing construction work on the Section II segment of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in Epe, Lagos State, where he spoke on regional peace efforts, national infrastructure development, and political debates ahead of future elections.

The former Ebonyi State governor said South-East governors and other influential figures in the region were focused on maintaining stability while looking for peaceful ways to address issues connected to Kanu’s continued detention.

According to him, the priority remains creating an environment where economic activities and development can continue across the region.

“The governors of the South-East are doing everything possible, and we are supporting them in ensuring a peaceful South-East while also exploring political ways of helping our brother, Nnamdi Kanu,” Umahi said.

South-East Political Strategy and Peace Efforts

The issue of Kanu’s detention has remained a major subject of discussion in the South-East, with various groups and leaders calling for dialogue and political engagement.

Umahi stressed that resolving the matter requires cooperation and responsible leadership rather than confrontation, adding that peace in the region is important for investment, infrastructure growth, and the wellbeing of residents.

He also linked the discussion to broader concerns about insecurity and the impact of the Monday sit-at-home order that has affected several communities in the region.

The minister criticised some political actors for what he described as a failure to adequately address security challenges affecting the South-East.

Umahi Defends Tinubu Administration’s Projects

During the inspection of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Umahi highlighted the project as one of the major infrastructure initiatives of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

He argued that large-scale projects such as the coastal highway could transform transportation networks, improve trade routes, and create economic opportunities across different parts of Nigeria.

The minister expressed concern over claims circulating online that some major infrastructure projects could be discontinued under a future administration, describing such a move as harmful to national development.

“I hope he did not say so,” Umahi said while reacting to reports attributed to former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi regarding possible changes to Tinubu’s projects.

Tinubu and Obi’s Leadership Records Become Debate

Umahi also challenged supporters of the Obidient Movement to compare the leadership records of President Tinubu during his time as Governor of Lagos State and Peter Obi’s tenure as Governor of Anambra State.

He said Nigerians should examine long-term development plans, infrastructure achievements, and policies that continued beyond each leader’s time in office.

According to him, leadership should be judged by measurable results, accountability, and the ability to create lasting systems.

Infrastructure Development and South-East Economic Future

The Works Minister further stated that ongoing infrastructure projects, including developments connected to major transport corridors, would contribute to economic expansion in the South-East and other parts of the country.

He maintained that national progress depends on continuity of projects, cooperation among leaders, and political stability.

The comments come amid ongoing discussions around regional development, political realignment, and the role of dialogue in addressing security and governance challenges in Nigeria.

What Nigerians Should Know Next

The South-East leadership’s reported efforts toward a political solution for Nnamdi Kanu’s situation remain a significant development, especially as stakeholders continue to debate how best to achieve lasting peace and economic growth in the region.

Future engagements between federal authorities, regional leaders, and community representatives are expected to shape the direction of discussions surrounding security, political cooperation, and development.