Lawyer Raises Concerns About Trial Procedure and Defense Timeline in Kanu Case

By Steve Oko, Umuahia

Lead counsel for the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Aloy Ejimakor, has voiced concerns about the conduct of the ongoing trial involving his client, Nnamdi Kanu, with particular focus on the limited time allocated for the defence to present its case.

Ejimakor stated that the defence was granted only a brief period to open its case after the prosecution concluded its presentation in June 2025, following the testimony of five witnesses since the trial commenced in March.

He explained that after a no‑case submission was dismissed, the court set a six‑day window for the defence to begin its proceedings. According to the lawyer, Kanu expressed a desire to represent himself after consulting with his legal team and requested additional time to prepare and call witnesses, but this request was denied.

The counsel highlighted the imbalance in time allotted to the prosecution versus the defence, arguing that adequate preparation time is essential for a fair case.

He cited Section 36(6)(b) and (c) of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee sufficient time and facilities for defence preparation and the right of an accused to defend themselves either personally or through legal representation.

Ejimakor also pointed out that jurisdictional questions raised during the proceedings had not yet been resolved, a matter he believes should be addressed before the trial can proceed further.

He maintained that such issues are fundamental to judicial proceedings and should normally be settled prior to any continuation of the trial.

The lawyer asserted that the defence could not operate effectively under the current schedule and called for adherence to fair‑trial standards as protected by law.

He added that respecting due process is vital to ensuring justice in this case.

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