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Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention is ‘Theatre of the Absurd’ — Defence Counsel
Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention is ‘Theatre of the Absurd’ — Defence Counsel
A member of the legal team defending the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Barrister Onyedikachi Ifedi, has faulted the Federal Government’s handling of Kanu’s trial, describing it as a “propaganda-driven theatre” with no legal foundation.
In a strongly worded statement on Sunday titled “The real theatre is in Abuja, not IPOB: A legal demolition of the ‘theatrical search for Nnamdi Kanu’s acquittal’ propaganda”, Ifedi accused the government of sponsoring media campaigns against IPOB while clinging to what he termed “dead charges.”
He dismissed a recent article published under the headline “IPOB’s theatrical search for Nnamdi Kanu’s acquittal”, branding it “the very definition of political theatre” pushed by “faceless writers hiding under government mouthpieces.”
The lawyer argued that Kanu’s continued detention violates both domestic and international law, citing his abduction from Kenya in June 2021 in what he described as “a classic case of extraordinary rendition.”
He pointed to the Court of Appeal judgment in FRN v. Kanu (CA/ABJ/CR/625/2022) delivered on October 13, 2022, which nullified proceedings against Kanu on the grounds that his rendition breached his fundamental rights.
“Instead of respecting this binding judgment, the Nigerian Supreme Court somersaulted in its December 15, 2023 ruling, violating centuries of settled law by remitting a case already nullified. That, dear reader, is the real theatre,” Ifedi said.
He further accused the Federal Government of prosecuting Kanu under the repealed Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act 2013, noting that Section 49 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022 had already invalidated it.
“Every count predicated on the TPAA 2013 is a legal corpse. Yet the Nigerian judiciary continues to entertain it. That is theatre of the absurd,” he declared, citing Supreme Court precedent in FRN v. Ifegwu (2003), which held that offences under a repealed law cannot stand.
On the substantive charges, Ifedi maintained that the government has failed to establish even the most basic elements of a criminal case.
“No victim. No weapon. No violent act attributed personally to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. At best, there are speeches and broadcasts — constitutionally protected under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution and Article 9 of the African Charter,” he argued, referencing Nwankwo v. State (1983) which held that mere expression of opinion cannot constitute a crime.
The lawyer also insisted that any appellate discharge of Kanu amounts to acquittal in law, citing Abacha v. State (2002) and Ezeze v. State (2004).
“Since the charges are founded on a repealed statute and brought in violation of jurisdiction through extraordinary rendition, any order of ‘discharge’ by an appellate court is in law an acquittal. To call it otherwise would expose Kanu to double jeopardy, which Section 36(9) of the 1999 Constitution forbids,” he said.
Ifedi concluded by saying that the “real theatrics” lie not in IPOB’s agitation but in Abuja’s legal gymnastics.
“Theatrics are not in IPOB’s demand for acquittal. The real theatrics are: a Supreme Court upholding a repealed law, a prosecution without evidence, a government committing international crimes yet sitting in judgment over its victim, and propaganda outlets hiding under faceless authorship,” he said.
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021, with his case continuing to stir political, legal, and diplomatic controversy.
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Leading this edition is the heartwarming cover story, “Godchildren Honour Emmanuel and Joy Ojiribe at 40th Anniversary Celebration in US,” which chronicles the remarkable legacy of love, faith, mentorship and family built over four decades by the celebrated couple, culminating in a memorable celebration attended by loved ones and admirers.
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The edition also brings readers up to speed on major international developments, including US President Donald Trump’s announcement of an Intel-Apple chip deal, Ghana’s move towards a local takeover of Gold Fields’ Tarkwa mine, CARICOM’s renewed commitment to improving citizens’ lives under incoming Chair Pierre, the possibility of cocoa prices rising above $10,000 per tonne once again, a comprehensive 14-Point Roadmap to De-escalation and Reconstruction, Singapore’s impressive 38.4 per cent growth in non-oil exports driven by artificial intelligence, and warnings from Kew scientists that AI and digitalization could play a crucial role in preventing global plant extinction.
On the back page, readers will find the inspiring story of Adenugba, who has been honored with the African Diaspora Fashion Platform Award, recognizing excellence, creativity and outstanding contributions to fashion within the global African diaspora community.
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SpaceX to join Nasdaq-100 index July 7
SpaceX will be added to the Nasdaq-100 Index on July 7, following confirmation by exchange operator Nasdaq, a move expected to trigger a surge in passive investment into the aerospace and artificial intelligence company.
The inclusion means exchange-traded funds and other investment vehicles that track the tech-heavy Nasdaq-100 Index will be required to purchase SpaceX shares, a development that typically boosts demand and supports a company’s stock price.
SpaceX, founded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, made its Nasdaq debut on June 12 and has experienced volatile financial performance in recent years, alternating between periods of losses and modest profits.
The company reported a net loss of $4.9bn in its most recent financial year, underscoring the challenges it continues to face despite strong investor interest in its space technology and artificial intelligence businesses.
The company’s addition to the index comes after Nasdaq, alongside other major index providers including FTSE Russell and MSCI, eased some of its listing eligibility requirements in an effort to attract more companies seeking to list on U.S. exchanges.
The revised criteria include changes to profitability requirements, the waiting period after a company’s initial public offering and the number of publicly traded shares required for inclusion in certain indices.
Meanwhile, S&P Global has maintained a more cautious approach.
The index provider said earlier this month that it would not alter its eligibility requirements for SpaceX to join its flagship indices, including the benchmark S&P 500.
According to S&P Global, the company will not be considered for inclusion in the S&P 500 until it has been publicly listed for at least 12 months.
The development comes as other leading artificial intelligence firms, including OpenAI and Anthropic, are widely expected to pursue initial public offerings either later this year or in 2027, with analysts projecting valuations exceeding $1tn.
Uzodimma Backs FLAC, Urges Nigerians to Unite Against Cancer
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the First Ladies Against Cancer, FLAC Nigeria, while calling on Nigerians to join efforts to combat cancer through increased awareness, early detection and sustained advocacy.
The governor made the pledge during a courtesy visit by members of FLAC and later at a gala night organised in their honour at the Government House in Owerri.
Speaking at the event, Uzodimma commended the organisation for its humanitarian interventions and contributions to improving cancer prevention, treatment and care across the country.
“I am excited to host you in Imo State and I commend your humanitarian services in Nigeria,” the governor said, assuring the delegation of his administration’s continued support for the organisation’s programmes.
He described Imo as the hospitality capital of the South-East and welcomed the delegates on behalf of the state government and people, assuring them of their safety during their stay.
The event also featured emotional testimonies from cancer survivors, including men, women and children, who recounted their experiences with the disease while encouraging Nigerians to embrace early screening and treatment.
Addressing guests at the gala night, Uzodimma stressed that the fight against cancer requires collective action, public education and efforts to eliminate the stigma associated with the disease.
He also lauded the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government for its investments in cancer prevention, treatment and palliative care, urging Nigerians to support ongoing reforms in the health sector.
“We need a new Nigeria where everyone participates in nation-building,” the governor said, adding that early detection remains critical to improving survival rates among cancer patients.
Earlier, the Chairperson of FLAC Nigeria and wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs Chioma Uzodimma, said the delegation visited to appreciate the governor for his consistent support for the organisation’s advocacy and activities.
She explained that FLAC, whose membership comprises serving and former first ladies across the country, marks Cancer Survivors Month every June to celebrate survivors, inspire hope and raise awareness about the disease.
She described the governor as “a special friend of FLAC” and presented him with an award on behalf of the organisation in recognition of his support for its mission.
The gala night featured musical performances, a fashion parade by cancer survivors, comedy, cake cutting, presentation of gifts to survivors and a fundraising session to support the organisation’s advocacy programmes.
Mrs Uzodimma disclosed that more than N100m was raised during the fundraising to support FLAC’s ongoing cancer awareness and advocacy initiatives.
The delegation included the wives of the governors of Adamawa, Zamfara and Ogun states, Hajia Lami Fintiri, Hajia Huriyya Lawal and Mrs Bamidele Abiodun; immediate past FLAC Chairperson, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu; former First Lady of Niger State, Dr Amina Abubakar; and former First Lady of Oyo State and ambassador-designate, Dr Florence Ajumobi, among other dignitaries.
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 98
CARICOM celebrates women in diplomacy, hosts young female honorary diplomats
The Politics of Akara and Kuli-Kuli Empowerment, by Boniface Ihiasota
Pastor Jerry Eze Defends Miracles At UK Conference Amidst Criticism And Controversy
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
