The legal consultant to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has called on the new Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Tunji Disu, to order the immediate discontinuation of the prosecution of individuals standing trial over their alleged participation in the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest.
Posting on X, the lawyer argued that the continued prosecution of the defendants contradicts recent assurances by the IGP that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to respecting and upholding fundamental human rights.
According to the statement, those facing trial committed “no crime known to law,” maintaining that their participation in the protest was an exercise of constitutionally guaranteed rights to peaceful assembly and expression.
The legal consultant further asserted that declarations on human rights would “ring hollow” if not accompanied by concrete actions, including the withdrawal of charges against the protesters.
He urged the police leadership to demonstrate fidelity to the rule of law by ensuring that citizens are not punished for engaging in peaceful civic activities.
The call comes amid ongoing legal proceedings involving individuals accused of participating in demonstrations demanding the release of Kanu.
Ejimakor wrote, “Dear IGP Disu: Your sound declaration to respect human rights would ring hollow unless you direct the prompt discontinuance of the ongoing prosecution of those standing trial for allegedly participating in the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest. They committed no crime known to law.”
