Labour Party (LP) standard bearer during the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi, has questioned the reason behind the arrest of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Obi, speaking to journalists on Thursday in Abuja about the planned protest by activist Omoyele Sowore and others over the release of Kanu said there was no need to arrest the IPOB leader in the first place.

He reaffirmed his long-held view that Kanu’s arrest since 2021 was unnecessary and his detention counterproductive, advocating dialogue and rule of law for all agitators amid Sowore’s planned release protests.

“I have always been consistent about the plight of Nnamdi Kanu, there was no need for his arrest in the first place,” Obi said.

“And I’ve always said that for me, I will consult, negotiate, and discuss with anybody who is agitating. I said it clearly and I remain there.”

Speaking further, Obi heaped plaudits on Sowore and others who have been agitating for Kanu’s release, with the former Governor of Anambra State noting that peaceful dialogue was key to resolving such crises.

“I thank those who are actually trying to do or say what we’ve been saying for a long time. Go and check what I’ve said before 2020, 2022, and even 2024. Now that it has gone to court, the rules should be followed—not just for Nnamdi Kanu, but for all agitators across the nation,” he added.

“There’s nothing wrong with anybody agitating or saying let’s have a dialogue with them. And whatever we do with them, let’s follow the rules. So, I thank the organisers and those who are involved.”

Former presidential candidate, Sowore, last week challenged Obi, Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, and other notable personalities in the South-East to march to Aso Rock on October 20, 2025 for Kanu’s release.

Sowore made the call in a post on his official X account on Tuesday, saying that he will set aside his differences with some politicians for one cause, Kanu’s release.

“I challenge every politician or person of good conscience from the Southeast who says they want Nnamdi Kanu released to stop the rhetoric. Time for action is now. Let’s march to Aso Rock Villa,” he said.

“Every governor, senator, member of the House, traditional ruler, priest, eze, Igbo person, and every Nigerian who believes in Kanu’s freedom, come out and do more than talk. I will lead this peaceful march to the Aso Rock Villa.

“No more empty noise. Let Charles Soludo, Senator Abaribe, Governor Alex Otti, Peter Obi, and all others who claim to care step up and join us in person.

“We go together peacefully, legally, and visibly to demand justice and an end to MNK’s persecution.”