Abia Assembly Urges Federal Government to Release Nnamdi Kanu Over Worsening Health

The Abia State House of Assembly has appealed to the Federal Government to expedite the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), citing growing concern over his deteriorating health. The call was made during Tuesday’s plenary session, where lawmakers debated matters affecting the state and the South-East region.

The motion, raised as a matter of urgent public importance by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie, highlighted the need for urgent medical attention for Kanu and the importance of resolving the prolonged detention in the interest of peace and justice.

In its resolution, the House commended Governor Alex Otti for his ongoing efforts to secure Kanu’s release and urged him to continue engaging relevant authorities to ensure the IPOB leader receives proper medical care.

“We encourage the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, to continue his efforts in securing the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, as well as enjoin the Members of the National Assembly from South-East extraction, the Leadership of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, and other relevant stakeholders to continue to push for his proper medical attention and for his release,” the House resolved.

The lawmakers also condemned the reported destruction of properties belonging to Igbo indigenes in Lagos State. They called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to intervene immediately to restore order and prevent further attacks on the Igbo community.

Supporting the motion, Hon. Nnamdi Ibekwe commended Governor Otti for fostering a conducive business environment for investors in Abia and urged other South-East governors to emulate his leadership approach.

During the same plenary, the House deliberated on several bills aimed at improving governance, housing, and transportation within the state.

The Abia State Landlord and Tenants Bill, 2025, sponsored by Rt. Hon. Madnela Obasi, representing Ohafia North State Constituency, was passed for first reading. The Bill seeks to regulate landlord-tenant relationships and ensure fairness and transparency in tenancy agreements.

The House also considered the Abia State Real Estate Regulatory Bill, 2025, sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Augustine Okezie. The Bill, which passed second reading, seeks to regulate real estate operations and establish Abia as a reliable investment hub in property development. It was referred to the Committee on Lands and Housing for public hearing and further legislative input within three weeks.

In addition, the Abia State Waterways Authority Bill, 2025, sponsored by Hon. Lewis Chinemerem Obianyi, representing Ukwa East, passed second reading. The Bill aims to create a regulatory framework for water transport, enhance trade, improve mobility, and generate revenue for the state.

Lawmakers agreed that the trio of bills align with Governor Otti’s vision of infrastructural renewal, business reform, and sustainable economic development across Abia State.