The Injustice Faced by Nnamdi Kanu and the Nigerian Government’s Blunders.
3 min read
Eculaw Group has been following the case of Nnamdi Kanu closely, and we must express our profound concern regarding the handling of this matter by the Nigerian government. Throughout its history, Nigerian governance has often been marred by blunders, ineptitude, and corruption, and this case exemplifies those persistent issues.
It is unfathomable that in the span of nearly ten years, the Nigerian government has been unable to conduct and conclude a criminal trial against Mr. Kanu. If the government possessed valid evidence, the case should have been straightforward to prosecute. Over the years, billions have been expended on security operations related to the challenges posed by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resulting in loss of lives and widespread disruption, particularly in the South East. With ample evidence available—ranging from video footage of incitement to the documented activities of IPOB—establishing at least one legitimate charge against Mr. Kanu in a trial lasting no more than three months should have been feasible.
However, it is evident that the government was not interested in upholding the rule of law or following due process. When Mr. Kanu was arrested in 2015, the authorities could have pursued charges based on minor offenses such as entering Nigeria without proper immigration clearance or obtaining funds under false pretenses. Instead, these seemed to be ignored in favor of pursuing the far more ambiguous and politically charged allegations of terrorism and treason.
The Nigerian government has relied on mere statements and casual broadcasts to willfully construct a narrative of a civil war for Biafra, creating a justification for expenditures intended to combat an imaginary civil war. This miscalculation has led to disastrous consequences, further entrenching societal divisions and undermining any potential for meaningful resolution.
The swift arrest and conviction of Simon Ekpa, a lesser figure in the IPOB agitation, in Finland, stands in stark contrast to the ten-year delay in trying Mr. Kanu. This disparity highlights a serious dishonesty on the part of Nigerian government.
The planned protest for the release of Nnamdi Kanu is not solely an expression of support for him but rather reflects a collective frustration with a corrupt system that exploits every issue for the parochial interests of a few. The Nigerian government has failed to manage the Kanu case in a manner that preserves its reputation and protect its citizens, resulting in mounting pressure for the release of Kanu.
Given the government’s history of hampering protests, it is essential for them to understand that stifling a peaceful demonstration would further undermine their credibility. While attempting to discredit the protest by engineering a counter-protest or inciting violence would be counterproductive, the overarching message remains clear: the time has come for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu.
After the past ten years of mismanagement, there is little faith that any ongoing trials would differ from previous proceedings, and thus, the judicial route is no longer a viable option. A political solution leading to Mr. Kanu’s immediate release is now the most sensible course of action.
In conclusion, the case of Nnamdi Kanu reflects a colossal failure of governance in Nigeria, and it serves as a critical reminder of the need for reform and accountability within the system. Eculaw Group stands committed to advocating for justice and the protection of human rights for all.
