The Igbo Ministers Commission of the South East has strongly opposed the federal government’s fresh trial of Nnamdi Kanu, insisting that the IPOB leader cannot be fairly prosecuted on terrorism charges due to constitutional and international breaches by the Nigerian state.
In a statement signed by Rev. Tony Uzo Anthony, the group condemned Kanu’s 2021 extradition, labeling it “kidnapping and state-backed international banditry.”
They argued that the government’s actions violated Nigeria’s own laws and international treaties, making any prosecution unjust.
With Kanu’s trial set to begin on March 21, 2025, the ministers raised key concerns to include illegal Extradition as Kanu’s transfer to Nigeria violated multiple international treaties Nigeria is bound to respect.
Another concern raised is the flawed Legal Basis as the case is being restarted de novo (from scratch), meaning old charges and laws, including the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act (TPAA) 2013, may not legally apply.
The also raised concern over the Judicial Integrity as the Supreme Court’s nullification of the Court of Appeal’s decision to discharge Kanu casts doubts about the fairness of the trial.
The ministers urged the international community to closely monitor proceedings, warning that the case is a test of Nigeria’s commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law.
They cautioned against using outdated laws and called for an open and transparent trial that upholds legal principles.
As the trial date approaches, pressure is mounting on the government to prove that justice in Nigeria is not only done but seen to be done.