Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi has said that the federal government is open to negotiating the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu. (IPOB). However, it stressed that his release should not be made a condition for political support.
Umahi disclosed on Friday night while addressing journalists in Lagos during a media chat i
He addressed recent claims suggesting that the South East was demanding Kanu’s release in exchange for backing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.“Somebody asked me about Nnamdi Kanu, and I said his matter is not a condition for the South East to support the President,” Umahi said.
“We are willing to negotiate his release, but no one should make it a condition because the President did not put him there,” he added.
Umahi praised President Tinubu’s leadership and noted that the president is attentive and open to dialogue. He expressed hope that Kanu’s release would eventually happen, but not through pressure or political bargaining.
“President Tinubu may not be perfect, but he is doing most things right. Look at where he picked up the economy from. The international community has confidence in his reforms. That is why we are getting support for our projects,” he said.
He further stated that the South East region is firmly behind President Tinubu and will support his re-election in 2027. According to him, the President has shown commitment to developing the region, especially through road construction and other infrastructure projects that were ignored in the past.
“Let those criticising the President show us what they have done for the country,” Umahi added.
On the issue of alleged marginalisation of the South East in federal appointments, the minister disagreed, saying Tinubu had already done more for the region than many of his predecessors.
He urged leaders in the South East, regardless of political affiliation, to work together. He also noted that even opposition governors in the region are cooperating with the current administration.Addressing rumours that he may contest for the presidency in 2027, Umahi dismissed such claims.
He said, “I will not run. I will work for my boss, President Tinubu.
APC is the path to achieving what we want. The South East now has a voice at the centre.
We will not return to Egypt.”
