Alloy Ejimakor, the Lead Counsel for Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has pointed out a significant challenge in adequately preparing Kanu’s defense against charges carrying the death penalty.
Ejimakor expressed concern that he and his legal team have not been granted sufficient access to consult with Kanu to prepare a robust defense against the serious charges. He emphasized that their interactions with Kanu are closely monitored, hindering their ability to have confidential discussions crucial for building a strong defense.
In a statement to journalists in Abuja, Ejimakor stressed the importance of unrestricted access to their client to ensure a fair trial, as guaranteed by Section 36 of the Nigerian constitution. He emphasized the need for confidentiality between a lawyer and their client to effectively prepare a defense against charges with severe penalties.
Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing terrorism charges before the Federal High Court presided over by Justice Binta Nyako. During recent proceedings, Ejimakor requested fair hearing safeguards for Kanu before the terrorism trial commences. The trial judge has set May 20 as the date to rule on Kanu’s bail application and his plea to be transferred from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) to house arrest.
In a motion presented by Ejimakor, Kanu requested the court to reinstate the bail granted to him in 2017, refuting the government’s claims of bail violation and asserting that he had to leave the country due to alleged military intervention at his residence.
