In a recent development surrounding the case of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), his legal team has issued a warning of a potential boycott of court proceedings.
The threat comes in response to perceived injustices against Kanu by the Department of State Services (DSS), where he has been held in custody since 2021.
Kanu, facing charges of treason and terrorism, had sought bail on health grounds and to adequately prepare for trial.
However, his plea for bail was rejected by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja, who instead assured an expedited trial process.
Scheduled to commence on April 17, 2024, Kanu’s trial faces hurdles as his legal representatives, led by Alloy Ejimakor, have alleged difficulties in adequately preparing him for court.
Ejimakor accused the DSS of obstructing access to Kanu and seizing legal documents crucial for trial preparation during a press conference in Abuja on April 9, 2024.
In a subsequent press briefing, Ejimakor stated that should the DSS persist in hindering their efforts, the legal team would withdraw from the trial proceedings.
He emphasised that such actions by the DSS would deprive Kanu of his right to a fair trial and asserted the team’s refusal to participate in a process biassed against their client.
Ejimakor clarified, “This legal team is not going to be part of the travesty of justice. If Nnamdi Kanu is not going to get a fair trial, this legal team is not going to be part of murdering justice in a Nigerian court.” He reiterated their commitment to Kanu’s cause but emphasised their refusal to engage in a process marred by injustice.
Efforts to reach the DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. Afunanya had not responded to inquiries regarding the allegations leveled against the DSS by Kanu’s legal team.
