Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, has emphasized that he won't plead with the Federal government for his release. This stance comes after Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja had already issued an order for his release.
In a letter dated August 25, 2023, and signed by his lead counsel, Mike Ozekhome, SAN, Kanu expressed concern about the poor conditions of his detention facility under the Department of State Services. Ozekhome sought the appointment of a Magistrate by the Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory to inspect the detention center.
Kanu referred to his decision not to beg for freedom as a tribute to the late Pa Mbazulike Amechi, who persistently appealed to the Federal Government to honor his dying wish but was met with disregard.
During a meeting with his legal team and family, Kanu reiterated his refusal to plead for release. In a statement by his counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Kanu thanked supporters and clarified that he had been legally discharged by a Court of Appeal judgment on October 13, 2022, which also barred his further trial and detention.
Kanu firmly believes that requesting his release from the Federal Government would be a disservice to the memory of Pa Mbazulike Amaechi, who went to great lengths to request his wish from the Government, only to be ignored.
Kanu's perspective is that there is no need to ask the FGN for his release, as the Court of Appeal has already spoken on this matter. Instead, he calls for the Supreme Court to expedite the appeal filed by the Federal Government. This information was shared during a visit to Kanu on August 28, 2023, by his legal team led by Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN.
Efforts have been made to address concerns about Kanu's welfare and his lack of access to medical records. An application has been submitted to the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory to appoint a Magistrate to inspect the SSS facility where Kanu has been held in solitary confinement since June 2021, in line with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.
In response to the SSS's refusal to provide medical records as directed by Justice Binta Nyako's July 20, 2023 judgment, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, initiated contempt proceedings against the State Security Service and its Director General.
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