The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has communicated to the Federal Government that he will not plead for his release, following his clearance by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja. A letter dated August 25, 2023, signed by Kanu’s lead counsel, Mike Ozekhome, SAN, conveyed this message.
The letter became available on the night of August 28, 2023. Ozekhome expressed concerns about the poor condition of Kanu’s detention facility under the Department of State Services.
In response, Kanu urged that asking for his freedom would disrespect the memory of the late Pa Mbazulike Amechi.
He highlighted Amechi’s efforts to implore the Federal Government to fulfill his final wish, which were met with disregard.
Kanu emphasized that his situation doesn’t necessitate begging for release.
He referenced the Court of Appeal’s ruling on October 13, 2022, which not only acquitted him but also forbade further trial and detention.
As of now, there are no pending charges against Kanu.
Kanu’s legal representative, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, conveyed that during a meeting with Kanu and his lawyers, he expressed gratitude for those advocating his release.
However, he emphasized that the focus should be on the Supreme Court scheduling an expedited hearing for the appeal filed by the Federal Government.
On August 28, 2023, the legal team visited Kanu to discuss actions taken to address concerns about his well-being and the SSS’s failure to provide his medical records.
They have submitted a request for the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory to appoint a Magistrate to inspect the SSS facility where Kanu has been held in solitary confinement. This is based on provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.
Due to the SSS’s refusal to provide Kanu’s medical records, as directed by Justice Binta Nyako’s July 20, 2023 judgment, lead counsel Mike Ozekhome initiated a contempt proceeding against the State Security Service and its Director General, citing their violation of court orders.
