Human Rights Lawyer Warns Nigerian Government Against Prosecuting Nnamdi Kanu Under Repealed Terrorism Law, Urges Negotiation Before March 20 Deadline
Abuja – Human rights lawyer Barr. Christopher Chidera has raised concerns over the Nigerian government’s plan to prosecute Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the repealed Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act 2013, calling it legally unsustainable.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Chidera argued that the revoked law cannot serve as a basis for Kanu’s trial. “Any attempt to prosecute the IPOB leader under the 2013 Act is legally untenable and procedurally flawed,” he asserted.
He urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to engage in negotiations with Kanu before 20 March 2025 to prevent exposing systemic flaws in Nigeria’s justice system. “The jurisdiction to prosecute Kanu under this Act ceased with its repeal. Continuing with this case would attract scrutiny both locally and internationally,” Chidera warned.
Kanu is set to represent himself in court on 21 March 2025, a move that could intensify scrutiny of Nigeria’s judiciary. “His self-representation signals a major shift and may expose inconsistencies within the legal system,” Chidera noted.
Describing the case as a critical test for Nigeria’s judiciary, Chidera urged Tinubu’s government to reconsider its approach. “Political dissent cannot be silenced by force, and the Biafran struggle will not be subdued through crackdowns or detention without trial,” he emphasized.
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