Fresh Twist In Kanu’s Case As Aide Reveals Reason Behind Lawyer’s Removal

A member of Nnamdi Kanu’s defence team, Christopher Chidera, has provided an explanation for the removal of lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor from the legal team representing the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader in his ongoing terrorism trial.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Ejiofor previously served as Kanu’s counsel at the Federal High Court in Abuja until the IPOB leader decided to personally handle aspects of his defence before Justice James Omotosho.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Chidera, a legal practitioner and public affairs analyst, alleged that several procedural errors by the former defence team contributed to the prolonged detention of Kanu.

“As a legal practitioner and public affairs analyst committed to constitutional supremacy, fair hearing, and respect for court orders, I address the circumstances surrounding the disengagement of Ifeanyi Ejiofor from Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team,” he said.

He claimed that the defence team failed to properly challenge what he described as an irregular application filed by the Federal Government following the Court of Appeal’s October 2022 decision discharging Kanu.

“The legal team failed to file a preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the alleged civil stay. This omission removed a key procedural safeguard,” he stated.

Chidera also alleged that members of Kanu’s family raised concerns about the handling of the case and demanded accountability over perceived lapses.

“Kanu’s brothers, who have remained supportive throughout, demanded accountability for these shortcomings and called for the resignation of those responsible,” he said.

He further accused Ejiofor of responding to internal criticism with what he described as unfounded allegations against members of Kanu’s family.

“Rather than accept responsibility, Ejiofor allegedly responded with a campaign of spurious and malicious claims against the family members,” he added.

Chidera noted that the appeal currently before the Court of Appeal raises fundamental questions relating to jurisdiction, fair hearing, and compliance with judicial pronouncements.

He maintained that Ejiofor owes the family, the legal profession, and the public a clear explanation of his actions, adding that personal grievances should not overshadow substantive legal issues.

“The rule of law demands transparency. The Court of Appeal must address the foundational irregularities in this matter. Nigeria’s justice system deserves better than distractions rooted in personal disagreements,” he concluded.