Gov Uzodinma not blocking release of Nnamdi Kanu – Presidency clarifies

The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration has cleared the air over reports making the rounds that Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State “blocked” the Presidency from sanctioning the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Reports have been trending in the Nigerian media space where it was alleged that Tinubu said efforts by his government to release Kanu from prison have been frustrated by Uzodinma.

However, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, while reacting to the report in a statement, explained that the news is aimed at building antipathy against the governor and incapacitating his chances of emerging victorious in the off-cycle gubernatorial election slated for November 11.

Onanuga added that Tinubu did not meet with Igbo leaders as widely reported on Monday, and the statement connected to him is fake.

Onanuga wrote, “The fake news on Uzodimma.

“The people of Imo State should please disregard the fake news in circulation that Governor Hope Uzodimma is blocking the release by President Bola Tinubu of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

“The fake news is obviously designed to build some resentment against the governor who has done very well for his people and who deserves a second term via Saturday’s election.

“President Tinubu did not meet Igbo businessmen on Monday. He didn’t say what was ascribed to him. He didn’t blame Gov. Uzodimma for anything.

“Sahara Reporters did not report the fake news. The link provided did not lead to the fake news on Sahara Reporters platform.

“It’s all wicked lies by politically desperate people.“