Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB members don’t deserve jail over Biafra agitation – Ejimakor
Special Counsel Urges Release of Nnamdi Kanu, Citing Free Speech Rights
Aloy Ejimakor, legal representative for Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), asserted on Saturday that Kanu and his supporters should not face imprisonment for their demands concerning the actualization of Biafra.
Ejimakor emphasized that incarcerating Kanu and other IPOB members for expressing their views sets a troubling precedent regarding free political expression. In a statement titled “Nobody Deserves Jail for Demanding Biafra,” he argued that democracy should address the underlying issues prompting calls for self-determination.
“As Nigeria approaches another general election, it is essential to recognize that a true democracy must address the grievances driving the demand for self-determination instead of resorting to stringent law enforcement measures to silence dissent,” he stated.
Ejimakor highlighted that advocating for a separate state is a fundamental human right recognized internationally. He clarified that promoting Biafra, regardless of the strength of rhetoric, should not be equated with terrorism or treason.
He added, “Imprisoning Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and other alleged IPOB members for their speech sets a dangerous precedent against free political expression. Free speech inherently includes the right to express controversial and unpopular political views.”
The counsel cautioned that imprisoning those who seek self-determination could exacerbate divisions and resentment within the country. He urged that such actions signal a criminalization of dissent, which is detrimental to true nation-building.
Ejimakor also noted that several nations emerged from stronger movements than Kanu’s. He cited examples such as Scotland and Catalonia, which have held referendums to express their political aspirations.
He called on the Nigerian government to release all prisoners of conscience prior to the 2027 elections. “What is transpiring today is not a legitimate prosecution but an unjust penalty for expressing a political demand,” he added. “Words and broadcasts are being criminalized, while actual violence remains unpunished.”
Ejimakor stressed that a democratic state should not imprison individuals for voicing thoughts about separation. He advocated for dialogue and a political resolution, asserting that these are the appropriate responses to a persistent demand for self-determination.
In his closing remarks, he urged for the release of all prisoners of conscience to promote peace and tranquility in Nigeria as the nation approaches a critical election period.
