Former counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, the convicted leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Aloy Ejimakor, has said that no strength of legal team could have altered the court’s decision to convict Kanu of terrorism. Nnamdi Kanu’s sentencing has sparked widespread discussions and debates on the legal proceedings.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Monday, Ejimakor dismissed suggestions that a more robust defence might have changed the outcome of the high-profile trial.
“I don’t believe one million lawyers standing behind Nnamdi Kanu would have changed the outcome of the case,” he said.
While stressing that he respects the authority of the court, Ejimakor maintained that the evidence did not clearly link Kanu’s broadcasts to the wave of violence in the South-East.
“The deed is done. I disagree with the conviction, the verdict, and the sentence, but the judge might have believed he had sufficient evidence. I did not see a clear connection between the broadcasts and the violence that claimed many lives. The violence continues today. Is it still the broadcasts?” he asked.
Predetermined Outcome
Ejimakor likened Kanu’s trial to several historic prosecutions of prominent public and political figures, alleging a pattern in politically charged cases.
He referenced biblical and historical figures, including Jesus Christ and anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela.
“The people who brought Jesus before Pontius Pilate had already made up their minds. They refused to release another condemned man and insisted on crucifying Christ. Nelson Mandela was not tied to violence in South Africa, but was convicted anyway. No weapon was found. His personality was considered a threat,” he said.
He also cited the 1960 treason trial of the late Premier of Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“Awolowo was convicted of attempting to overthrow the government, yet he was a civilian. No evidence showed he had the means or opportunity. So in this very case (Nnamdi Kanu), I am not saying the judge was biased, but it was palpable that the system was determined to see him convicted. It started the day he was seized in Kenya,” Ejimakor argued.
Ejimakor also confirmed Kanu’s transfer to the Sokoto Custodial Centre, a development he criticised on humanitarian and legal grounds, saying the move has further cut Kanu off from his family and lawyers.