Can MNK Effectively Prosecute His Appeal From That Location In Sokoto? The Answer Is No -Ejimakor

In a recent interview on Channels TV, Aloy Ejimakor, legal consultant to Nnamdi Kanu, discussed the challenges facing the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader following his life imprisonment sentence on terrorism-related charges.

Ejimakor posed a critical question regarding the logistics of Kanu’s appeal, stating, “Can Nnamdi Kanu effectively prosecute his appeal from that location in Sokoto? The answer is no.” He explained that Kanu’s detention far from Abuja, where the Court of Appeal has jurisdiction, severely limits his ability to carry out the necessary legal steps. Filing notices, obtaining court records, and preparing for the appeal all require either his personal presence or the appointment of a lawyer, which has not yet been confirmed.

The legal consultant also highlighted that Kanu’s decision to represent himself complicates matters further. He noted that the high court had given him limited days to make his defense, and the physical distance from the court makes it extremely difficult to coordinate effectively. Ejimakor emphasized that the responsibility for Kanu’s current location lies with the executive branch and the correctional service, not the judge who delivered the sentence.

Ejimakor discussed the broader legal context, focusing on the repealed Anti-Terrorism Act. He explained that Kanu’s defense was based on the constitutional principle that ongoing cases should be prosecuted under current laws rather than repealed provisions. He likened it to historical legal reforms in Nigeria, arguing that Kanu’s insistence on being tried under current legislation was both reasonable and constitutionally grounded.

On the political implications, Ejimakor expressed concern for the Southeast region, stressing that the court did not establish a clear link between Kanu’s broadcasts and acts of violence. He maintained that while the verdict stands, Kanu retains the constitutional right to appeal, leaving the legal and political debate surrounding the case unresolved.

If you love political news or like to get more news happening around the globe, use the button below to get more verified news happening around Nigeria and the world today.