NEWS
We have not been dismissed — Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers allege
Lead counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has responded to claims that his services, along with those of his colleague, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, have been terminated in the case of Nnamdi Kanu.
These reports surfaced following statements made by Kanu’s younger brother, Kingsley, also known as Kanunta Kanu, via his Twitter handle, where he allegedly announced the termination of their appointments.
Kanunta Kanu cited several reasons for their dismissal, including the failure of Mike Ozekhome to visit Kanu at the Department of State Services (DSS) headquarters in Abuja, as well as the prevention of medical examinations scheduled for June 5.
In response, Ifeanyi Ejiofor released a press statement countering the claims. He stated that he, along with other lawyers, had visited Kanu at the DSS headquarters to discuss his ongoing court cases, particularly the upcoming matter scheduled for June 20 at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Ejiofor emphasized that the focus of the meeting was on Kanu’s deteriorating medical condition.
Ejiofor clarified that the medical doctors who attempted to see Kanu were not there to perform surgical procedures but rather to meet and consult with their lead counsel, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, before proceeding with other administrative engagements.
He highlighted that this arrangement was agreed upon during a meeting held on June 3 with the DSS in the presence of Nnamdi Kanu.
Addressing the publication that triggered the controversy, Ejiofor expressed his disappointment, considering it defamatory and aimed at serving a particular agenda. He emphasized that neither Kingsley Kanu nor Emmanuel Kanu had instructed him to handle Nnamdi Kanu’s case or any matters related to IPOB. Ejiofor noted that he still possesses the letters of engagement issued to him by Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB in 2015.
Furthermore, Ejiofor stated that neither Kingsley Kanu nor anyone acting on his behalf engaged Prof. Mike Ozekhome to represent Nnamdi Kanu in any legal matters.
He reaffirmed that it was Nnamdi Kanu himself who specifically requested to meet with Prof. Mike Ozekhome upon his abduction and extradition to Nigeria. The details of this meeting are already in the public domain, where Nnamdi Kanu personally briefed Prof. Mike Ozekhome to lead his legal team.
Ejiofor firmly dismissed any evil strategies plotted by Emmanuel and Kingsley Kanu, assuring the public that Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team is resolute and will continue working tirelessly to secure his unconditional release. He assured IPOB members that they should remain confident about Kanu’s situation, emphasizing that no harm will befall him.
As the situation surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s case unfolds, observers are eagerly anticipating further developments and the resolution of the legal proceedings. The commitment and dedication of the legal team involved will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the case and the future of IPOB’s activities.
