In a development that has drawn widespread criticism, the Supreme Court has overturned a lower court’s decision to dismiss terrorism charges against Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This decision has been met with disappointment from various quarters, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, and Enyinnaya Abaribe, a former Senate Minority Leader.
The apex court, in a judgment prepared by Justice Garba Mohammed, criticized the invasion of Kanu’s residence, deeming it irresponsible. However, the court asserted that a trial should proceed despite the violation of the suspect’s rights, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the rule of law.
Justice Mohammed stated, “No legislation in the country stripped the trial court of the jurisdiction to go ahead with Kanu’s case, despite the illegal action of the FG. The law must take its course. The Court of Appeal was wrong that the trial court couldn’t try him. The appeal is allowed, and the cross-appeal is dismissed.”
IPOB, through its spokesman Emma Powerful, expressed dissatisfaction with Kanu’s continued detention, labeling it ‘unconstitutional.’ Powerful highlighted the legality of self-determination, citing support from United Nations laws and the Africa Union Charter. The group also commended the governors of Anambra and Enugu states for calling for Kanu’s unconditional release.
Former Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, issued a heartfelt appeal to Biafra agitators, urging a return to non-violent means of agitation. Meanwhile, Abaribe termed the judgment an unfortunate outcome and called for calm while expressing belief in the government’s commitment to resolving the issue.
Nnamdi Kanu, initially arrested in 2015 under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, had been granted bail in 2017 but fled the country after a military invasion of his home. Re-arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria in 2021, Kanu now faces a fresh 14-count charge, including terrorism-related charges.
As stakeholders react to this latest development, concerns about national cohesion and unity persist, with leaders pressing for a swift resolution to the situation.