Amid mounting concerns over perceived injustice, the legal team representing Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has issued a stern warning of potential boycotts of court proceedings if their client’s right to a fair trial is not upheld by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Kanu, facing charges of treason felony and terrorism, has been in DSS custody since 2021, prompting his legal team to advocate for his rights and fair treatment in accordance with legal standards. However, their efforts have been met with alleged obstruction and denial of access to Kanu by the DSS.
Alloy Ejimakor, leading Kanu’s legal defense, has raised troubling allegations against the DSS, accusing the agency of withholding access to their client and seizing crucial legal documents necessary for trial preparation. Ejimakor’s remarks during press conferences in Abuja underscore the gravity of the situation, with the legal team expressing frustration and dismay over the apparent hindrances to their duties.
The looming trial, scheduled to commence on April 17, 2024, hangs in the balance as Kanu’s legal representatives contemplate their next course of action. Ejimakor’s firm stance signals a refusal to partake in proceedings marred by what they perceive as blatant injustice and unfair treatment towards their client.
Emphasizing their commitment to upholding the principles of justice, Ejimakor affirmed that the legal team would not condone any process that undermines Kanu’s fundamental rights or compromises the integrity of the judicial system. The threat of boycott serves as a poignant reminder of the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for transparency and accountability in legal proceedings.
Despite efforts to obtain a response from the DSS, spokesperson Peter Afunanya remained unavailable for comment at the time of reporting, leaving the allegations unanswered and the looming trial shrouded in uncertainty.