IPOB seeks clarification from Judge Omotosho on legal basis of ruling on Nnamdi Kanu
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has asked Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja to explain the specific legal provisions behind his recent ruling involving the group’s detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the group said it intends to scrutinize and publicly outline what it considers constitutional concerns arising from the judgment. IPOB argued that no weapons, attack materials, or witness testimony were presented in court linking Kanu to any offence under Nigerian or international law, insisting that its position is informed by courtroom proceedings and legal submissions.
The organisation restated its long-held position that agitation for self-determination is protected under international human rights frameworks, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenants on Civil, Political, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. It maintained that calls for a referendum or political agitation should not be criminalised.
IPOB also noted that Kanu remained in custody during recent security incidents in the South-East and said this should be considered when assessing his alleged involvement.
Citing Section 36(12) of the 1999 Constitution, which states that no one can be convicted of an offence not clearly defined in written law, IPOB asked Justice Omotosho to identify the specific law relied upon in his ruling and confirm whether such law is still valid.
The group said it will continue reviewing the judgment and raising what it regards as constitutional and procedural issues, stressing that the case has wider implications for human rights, judicial standards, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
IPOB reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful advocacy and vowed to continue engaging international bodies through lawful and diplomatic channels.
