Jubilation in Nnamdi Kanu’s camp as court acquits five IPOB members
By Jeffrey Agbo
Abia State High Court in Umuahia has discharged and acquitted five members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), sending jubilation to the camp of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
They were said to have been arrested on July 20, 2022 and subsequently charged before the court.
A statement by IPOB lead counsel and human rights activist, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, described it as “Christmas gift.”
He said, “These innocent Biafrans were arraigned on a three count charge of conspiracy, unlawful possession of firearm, and membership of an unlawful society. Trial in the charge commenced, and the prosecution called a total of three witnesses.
“Today, December 19 2024, the Court per Hon. Justice A.O. Chijioke, while ruling on our application, discharged and consequently acquitted these innocent Biafrans, of all counts of the charge.
“We deeply appreciate the hardwork and dexterity of Dennison Agu, Esq, our Head of Chambers- Chinwe Umeche, Esq, and our other colleagues in Chambers, who worked assiduously to secure this latest victory.
“We reiterate and reassure Biafrans, that we shall not rest on our oars in ensuring that all innocent Biafrans languishing in different detention facilities across the country, regain their freedom. We only urge you, as you’ve always been, to remain peaceful and law abiding in your legitimate and constitutional quest for self determination.”
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Reacting to the court verdict, Daniel Okonkwo of Profile International Human Rights Advocate said it should inspire renewed faith in the pursuit of justice and defence of human rights.
He said, “Freedom is never dear at any price. It is the breath of life. What would a man not pay for living?
“In a tremendous ruling that incorporates the essence of justice and the rule of law, the Abia State High Court in Umuahia has discharged and acquitted five Biafrans who had been detained since their arrest on July 20, 2022. These individuals, who faced charges of conspiracy, unlawful possession of firearms, and membership of an unlawful society under Charge No: HU/61C/2022, were cleared of all allegations by the court.
“Presiding over the case, Honorable Justice A. O. Chijioke delivered a judgment hailed as a conquest of fairness and the rule of law. The ruling followed the prosecution’s presentation of three witnesses, whose arguments were systematically dismantled by the defense team’s meticulous legal strategy and expertise.
“This acquittal serves as a colossal exemplification of the steadfast dedication, professionalism, and strength of the character of Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq. (KSC), and his formidable legal team. Comprising Dennison Agu, Esq., and Head of Chambers Chinwe Umeche, Esq., the defense team demonstrated unique precision and commitment to ensuring justice for their clients. Their collaborative efforts have once again shone a heliograph of hope for the pursuit of justice for the wrongfully accused.
“The case reinforces a universal principle: ‘True freedom requires the rule of law and justice and a judicial system in which the rights of some are not secured by the denial of rights to others.’ Through their success in securing the acquittal of these innocent individuals, the defense team has not only protected the rights of their clients but has also upheld the core values of justice and human rights advocacy.”
“This is an incredible victory and a heliograph of hope for justice and fairness in the fight for the freedom of innocent detainees,” remarked lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor in a heartfelt statement following the ruling in favour of the IPOB members.
He reassured the public of his team’s continued dedication to ensuring the release of all innocent Biafrans detained across Nigeria.
“We deeply appreciate the hard work and dexterity of our legal team,” Mr Ejiofor stated. “We will not rest on our oars in ensuring that justice prevails for all innocent detainees. We urge all Biafrans to remain peaceful and law-abiding as they pursue their legitimate and constitutional quest for self-determination.
“As we celebrate this victory, it is clear that the ruling is not just a triumph for the acquitted but a sign of hope for countless others still fighting for justice. It reinforces the sturdiness of the legal system when guided by fairness and truth.”