Human rights lawyer Maxwell Opara has criticized the handling of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s trial, highlighting what he described as severe procedural irregularities that compromised the fairness of the proceedings. He noted that the actions of the presiding judge at critical stages of the trial raised serious questions about adherence to due process.
Opara recounted during an interview on Symfoni TV that “Omotosho told Kanu, ‘I can see you are not ready to enter your defense. I hereby foreclose him.’” He argued that this action effectively denied Kanu the opportunity to fully present his case and deprived him of a fundamental right to a fair trial, especially in a matter carrying the weight of a life sentence.
The lawyer explained that the trial had already been marked by multiple irregularities, including the refusal to allow Kanu to submit a final written address and the use of witnesses whose testimonies were inconsistent and lacked proper investigative support. He maintained that the court’s decision to foreclose Kanu’s defense further compounded an already flawed process.
Opara also criticized the federal government for ignoring higher court rulings, including decisions from the Court of Appeal, which had highlighted the irregularities in Kanu’s extraordinary rendition and other procedural matters. He said that the selective enforcement of court orders undermines the credibility of the justice system.
Despite these challenges, Opara reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing all available legal remedies to ensure that Kanu’s rights are upheld. He emphasized that the case highlights broader concerns about the rule of law, judicial independence, and the protection of fundamental rights in high-profile cases in Nigeria.
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