The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has rejected a ruling by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which directed its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, to explain certain aspects of his terrorism charge.
In a statement issued yesterday by its spokesman, Emma Powerful, the group argued that the ruling violates Section 36(11) of the Nigerian Constitution, which forbids compelling a defendant to testify against himself. IPOB accused the court of serving the interests of the presidency rather than upholding the law.
“The remark has exposed the reality of Abuja courts, that their first duty is not to ensure justice, but to satisfy the whims and caprices of the federal government,” the group said. IPOB maintained that the burden of proof rests with the prosecution and not the accused, adding that asking Kanu to “explain certain things” amounted to aiding persecution.
The group also questioned whether Justice Omotosho expected Kanu to fill gaps in a case it described as being built on contradictory witnesses, lack of investigation reports, and reliance on a repealed law. IPOB reiterated that Kanu’s detention is unjust and that his only “crime” is advocating for self-determination.
