The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has urged Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja to clarify the legal grounds for his recent judgment involving their leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement by their spokesperson, Comrade Emma Powerful, IPOB announced plans to scrutinize the ruling closely and publicly address what they consider constitutional issues stemming from the decision.
IPOB pointed out that no weapons or materials related to attacks were presented as evidence in court, and no witnesses testified to any offenses committed by Kanu under Nigerian or international law. They based this assertion on their understanding of the court proceedings and legal submissions.
The group reaffirmed its position that calls for self-determination are protected under international law, citing the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenants on Civil and Political Rights and Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. IPOB emphasized that political agitation or calls for a referendum should not be criminalized.
They also highlighted that Kanu remained detained during recent unrest in the South-East region, suggesting this fact should be considered when evaluating his involvement.
Citing Section 36(12) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution—which requires that no individual be convicted unless the offense is clearly defined in written law—IPOB requested that the court specify the exact legal provision used in the ruling and confirm if it is still applicable.
The group pledged to keep analyzing the judgment and raise constitutional and procedural concerns, stressing that the case has broader implications for human rights, judicial integrity, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Finally, IPOB reiterated its commitment to peaceful advocacy and its plan to continue seeking support from international organizations through legal and diplomatic means.
