The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, is innocent until proven guilty, according to his lawyer, Bar. Ifeanyi Ejiofor.
Kanu’s lawyer made this known in a statement on Tuesday evening in reaction to the IPOB leader’s re-arrest.
“We have just confirmed through a correspondence from the Federal High Court Abuja, about the arrest and the extradition of my Client- Mazi Nnamdi Kanu by the Nigerian State,” the statement reads.
“It is to be noted, therefore, that no matter the gravity of the offences or charge preferred against him, Section 36(5) of the Constitution still presumes him innocent of the allegation.
“He was brought before the Federal High Court No 2 Abuja today on an Eleven count charge, though without our knowledge.
“As it is in the public domain, the matter has been consequently adjourned to the 26th Day of July 2021, for Continuation of Trial.
“The legal team ably led by my humble self will meet them in court on this date.
“We insist that he must be given a fair hearing/trial which is his constitutionally protected right.
“His safety as also guaranteed under our law throughout the trial and afterwards should be enforced.
“Our fortified Legal team will be meeting to agree on strategies within the context of the Charge and disposition of the Court. Await further update from us as we progress.
“Thank you and remain blessed”.
Kanu was arraigned in court in Abuja on Tuesday morning after he was reportedly arrested and returned to Nigeria on Sunday, June 27. He will remain in custody of the DSS until July 26, when he is to appear in court again.
The IPOB leader had fled the country in September 2017 after an invasion of his home by the military in Afara-Ukwu, near Umuahia, Abia State.
