Kanu’s Lawyer Threatens Legal Action Over TV Remarks

Lead counsel to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Aloy Ejimakor, has threatened legal action over comments allegedly made during a television programme calling for Kanu’s killing while his terrorism trial is still before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Ejimakor, in a statement released on Tuesday, said the remarks were made by Chigozie Nnabugwu during a programme aired on News Central Television on July 19. He said the comments were later shared on the station’s verified X account and had attracted public attention.

According to the lawyer, the alleged statement amounted to a call for the unlawful killing of a citizen whose case is still being decided by the court. He argued that such comments could put Kanu’s life at risk, encourage violence and weaken public confidence in the justice system.

Ejimakor maintained that promoting the killing of a person facing trial goes against the principles of due process and the rule of law. He also said the alleged remarks could fall under provisions of the Cybercrimes Act dealing with electronic messages capable of threatening lives or disturbing public order, adding that such offences may attract fines, imprisonment or both if proven in court.

The lawyer also criticised News Central Television for allowing the statement to be aired, saying media organisations have a duty to prevent the broadcast of content that could encourage violence or unlawful acts. He added that broadcasters could face regulatory action if they fail to meet professional standards expected of the media.

He further argued that making such statements while court proceedings are ongoing could be seen as an attempt to interfere with the administration of justice.

Ejimakor disclosed that Kanu’s legal team is considering further legal steps, including petitions to the relevant regulatory and security agencies. He also demanded a public apology from the television station and a retraction from the individual involved, warning that failure to meet those demands could lead to court action.

Nnamdi Kanu is currently standing trial on terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja. His case has continued to draw national and international attention, while his legal team insists that his constitutional rights and the judicial process must be respected throughout the proceedings.