The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has informed the Federal Government that he will not beg for his release. This follows his clearance by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
In a letter dated August 25, 2023, written by Kanu’s main lawyer, Mike Ozekhome, SAN, Kanu expressed his unwillingness to beg for his release. The letter, which became available on the late night of August 28, 2023, also highlighted concerns about the poor state of Kanu’s detention facility under the Department of State Services.
Ozekhome requested the appointment of a Magistrate by the Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory to inspect the detention center.
Kanu has stated that begging for his freedom now would disrespect the memory of the late Pa Mbazulike Amechi who despite his advanced age and poor health, made multiple trips from the South-East to Abuja, pleading with the Federal Government to fulfill his dying wish. Regrettably, this plea was disregarded and left unfulfilled.
These were the high points of the discussion during the meeting between the IPOB leader and his lawyers and family, according to a statement issued by Kanu’s counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor titled, “Update on our routine visit to our indefatigable client – Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Headquarters of the State Security Services, Abuja, where he is still being illegally and unconstitutionally detained in solitary confinement.”
Ejiofor said, “Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu used the opportunity offered by the visit to extend his heartfelt gratitude to all people of good conscience and groups calling for his release.
He however, observed that many people may not have understood the peculiarity of his case, but proceeded to urge us to clarify that he has been effectively and validly discharged by the judgment of the Court of Appeal, delivered October 13 2022, which said judgment also prohibited his further trial and detention. Therefore, there is no charge pending against Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu before any court as of today.
