According to a report by Nigerian Tribune on Saturday, June 13, 2026, the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has stated that he would release Nnamdi Kanu and pursue dialogue with separatist agitators across the country if elected President of Nigeria.Obi made the declaration during an interactive session with Nigerians living in Washington, where he outlined his views on national unity, freedom of expression, and the need for political engagement as a means of addressing grievances.According to him, the country would benefit more from constructive discussions with aggrieved groups than from prolonged confrontations and detentions.Speaking before members of the Nigerian community in the United States, Obi maintained that the continued detention of Kanu was unnecessary and counterproductive.He argued that democratic societies thrive when citizens are allowed to express their opinions freely, even when such opinions are critical of political leaders and government institutions.The former governor stressed that disagreement with those in authority should not automatically attract criminal sanctions, noting that open criticism is an essential feature of democratic governance.Obi explained that his administration would prioritize dialogue and reconciliation in dealing with issues of separatist agitation and regional discontent.He said many of the tensions currently being experienced in different parts of the country stem from unresolved concerns and a lack of meaningful engagement between the government and affected groups.He emphasized that listening to citizens and addressing their grievances through lawful and peaceful channels would contribute significantly to national stability and cohesion.The NDC presidential candidate further noted that governments should distinguish between violent criminal activities and expressions of opinion.He argued that political leaders should be willing to tolerate criticism from citizens, regardless of how harsh or uncomfortable such criticism may be.According to him, democratic leadership requires patience, openness, and the ability to accommodate diverse viewpoints without resorting to measures that could be perceived as suppressing free speech.During the interaction, Obi reiterated his commitment to pursuing policies that would encourage dialogue among different groups within the country.He said national challenges could be better resolved through engagement and mutual understanding rather than through actions that deepen divisions.He maintained that creating opportunities for conversation and reconciliation would help reduce tensions and foster a stronger sense of belonging among citizens from various regions and backgrounds.He said, “There’s no reason for keeping Nnamdi Kanu. I will free Nnamdi Kanu as President. He has done nothing wrong; the government has no reason to arrest him because he was speaking and calling people names on radio.”