Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has said there was no need for the arrest of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Kanu is being held by the Department of State Services (DSS), and he's facing charges bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony.

A Federal High Court has told him to open his defence following the closure of the case levelled against him by the Federal Government.

Fielding questions from newsmen in Abuja, Obi was asked how he feels about Kanu's situation.

"There was no need for the arrest in the first place," he said.

"Now that he's in court, the rules should be followed, not just for Nnamdi Kanu but for all agitators across the nation. Let's dialogue with them; there's nothing wrong with them agitating. And whenever we deal with them, let's follow the rules."

On the #FreeMaziNnamdiKanu protest slated for Monday in Abuja, Obi thanked the organisers and everyone involved.

"I thank the organisers and I thank those who are involved," he said.

ASA