Why Nnamdi Kanu Sacked Ejiofor As His Lawyer – Chidera

A member of Nnamdi Kanu’s defence team, Christopher Chidera, has explained the circumstances that led to the removal of lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor from the legal team representing the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in his terrorism trial.

Naija News understands that Ejiofor had served as Kanu’s counsel in proceedings before the Federal High Court in Abuja until the IPOB leader opted to conduct his defence before Justice James Omotosho.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Chidera, who is also a public affairs analyst, alleged that a series of legal errors by the former defence team contributed to the prolonged detention of Kanu.

“As a legal practitioner and public affairs analyst committed to constitutional supremacy, fair hearing, and respect for court orders, I write on the circumstances surrounding the disengagement of Ifeanyi Ejiofor from Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team,” he said.

According to him, the legal team failed to challenge what he described as an irregular application filed by the Federal Government after the Court of Appeal discharged Kanu in October 2022.

“The legal team failed to file a Preliminary Objection challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the illegal civil stay. This failure removed a potent procedural barrier,” Chidera stated.

Chidera further alleged that Kanu’s family questioned the handling of the case and demanded accountability over the developments.

“Kanu’s brothers, who have stood loyally and sacrificially by him, demanded accountability for these lapses. They called for the resignation of those responsible,” he said.

He accused Ejiofor of responding to the criticism by making allegations against members of Kanu’s family.

“Rather than accept responsibility, Ifeanyi Ejiofor responded with a vicious campaign of spurious and malicious allegations against the brothers,” he alleged.

Chidera said the appeal currently before the Court of Appeal raises fundamental issues concerning jurisdiction, fair hearing and compliance with judicial orders.

“The appeal currently before the Court of Appeal raises serious questions of jurisdictional nullity, fair hearing, and obedience to appellate orders,” he said.

He added, “Ifeanyi Ejiofor owes the Kanu family, the legal profession, and the Nigerian public a candid explanation. Smearing the brothers cannot erase the record.”

Chidera maintained that the Court of Appeal should examine what he described as foundational irregularities in the case.

“The rule of law requires transparency. The Court of Appeal must now address the foundational irregularities in this matter. Nigeria’s justice system deserves better than the distraction of personal bitterness from those whose own lapses contributed to this prolonged injustice,” he added.