By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
The Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) has confirmed the arrest and extradition back to Nigeria of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, by agents of the Federal Government.
In a move that took many Nigerians by surprise, the Federal Government on Tuesday announced that it has rearrested Kanu.
While not disclosing where and how the arrest was effected, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, in a pres conference in Abuja, said: “Self-acclaimed leader of the proscribed secessionist Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has been arrested through the collaborative efforts of Nigerian intelligence and security services.
“He has been brought back to Nigeria in order to continue facing trial after disappearing while on bail regarding 11 count charge against him.
“Recent steps taken by the Federal Government saw to the interception of the fugitive Kanu on Sunday the 27th day of June, 2021.”
Confirming the development on Tuesday evening, Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, lead counsel to both IPOB and Nnamdi Kanu, said in a statement which was made available to TheNiche that: “We have just confirmed through a correspondence from the Federal High Court Abuja, about the arrest and the extradition of my Client- Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, by the Nigerian State.”
Ejiofor said “It is to be noted therefore, that no matter the gravity of the offences or charge preferred against him, Section 36(5) of the Constitution still presumes him innocent of the allegation.
“He was brought before the Federal High Court No 2 Abuja today on an Eleven count charge, though without our knowledge.
“As it is in the public domain, the matter has been consequently adjourned to the 26th Day of July 2021, for Continuation of Trial. The legal team ably led by my humble self will meet them in court on this date.
“We insist that he must be given a fair hearing/trial which is his constitutionally protected right.
His safety as also guaranteed under our law throughout the trial and afterwards, should be enforced.
“Our fortified Legal team will be meeting to agree on strategies within the context of the Charge and disposition of the Court. Await further update from us as we progress.”