The legal representatives of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), have expressed their intention to visit him despite the restrictions imposed by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Kanu’s lead attorney, Aloy Ejimakor, warned that the DSS could face consequences from the Abuja Federal High Court if they continue to enforce these restrictions.
The DSS had barred Kanu’s legal team from visiting him following a disturbance at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Kanu called for the recusal of Justice Binta Nyako.
The court even threatened to imprison DSS Director General Adeola Ajayi due to the agency’s limitations on Kanu’s lawyers.
In a discussion on Arise TV, Ejimakor stated, “The court’s threat has already made an impact; I’ve received some hints that there have been political interventions from figures like Obi Agwoucha and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, which may lead to a compromise. I’ve been informally informed that the DSS may be reconsidering its position and is willing to cooperate.”
Ejimakor mentioned that he plans to submit a letter listing the names of lawyers who intend to visit Kanu on Monday, hoping the restrictions will be lifted. “If they are lifted, we will meet our client. If not, we will continue the legal process until it reaches a resolution.”
He emphasized that Kanu has the right to consult with his lawyers under Section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution. “He should not be detained by the DSS at all; it’s essentially a makeshift holding facility. He should be in a proper prison where such restrictions aren’t imposed.”
Ejimakor criticized the DSS’s conditions, stating, “The DSS is a secured environment, yet these restrictions are detrimental to detainees. We’re not asking for a complete overhaul, but if you insist on detaining him improperly, then you must make necessary adjustments. If you fail to do so, you will face repercussions from the court that issued the order.”