Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, the Lead Counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has responded to the publication stating that his services, along with that of Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, are no longer required in Nnamdi Kanu’s case.
The reaction comes shortly after Kanu’s family allegedly terminated their appointment, as announced by Kanu’s younger brother, Kanunta Kanu, via Twitter. Kanunta cited reasons for their decision, including Prof. Mike Ozekhome’s refusal to see Kanu at the DSS headquarters and the prevention of medical doctors from examining Kanu.
In response to the publication, Ejiofor took to Twitter to dispute Kanunta’s claims. He clarified that neither Kingsley Kanu nor Emmanuel Kanu had ever instructed him to handle Nnamdi Kanu’s case or any IPOB matters. Ejiofor stated that his letters of engagement from Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB since 2015 are still valid.
Regarding Prof. Mike Ozekhome’s involvement, Ejiofor emphasized that neither Kingsley Kanu nor anyone acting on his behalf engaged the professor to represent Nnamdi Kanu. He reminded the public that Nnamdi Kanu specifically requested to meet with Prof. Mike Ozekhome after his abduction and rendition to Nigeria, during which Ozekhome was briefed to lead the legal team. Ejiofor praised Ozekhome’s exceptional advocacy skills in representing Nnamdi Kanu in Nigerian courts.
Ejiofor made it clear that Nnamdi Kanu has not terminated their appointment, firmly stating that the claim made by Kanunta is defamatory, fake, and unauthorized. He urged the public to disregard Kanunta’s publication, highlighting that it was an attempt to tarnish the image of Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team.
The full statement issued by Ejiofor emphasized their visit to Nnamdi Kanu at the DSS Headquarters in Abuja, where they discussed his legal cases and concerns regarding his deteriorating medical condition. Ejiofor reassured Biafrans that the legal team, led by Prof. Mike Ozekhome, is closely monitoring the situation and that there is no cause for alarm.
In light of recent developments, Ejiofor announced that they would minimize the information made public in their routine updates, sharing only when necessary. He addressed the false claims made by Kingsley Kanu, reiterating that neither he nor Emmanuel Kanu had instructed him to handle the case.
Ejiofor concluded by expressing Nnamdi Kanu’s gratitude to supporters and encouraged them to remain steadfast and continue their peaceful conduct. He assured them that the legal team is working tirelessly for Nnamdi Kanu’s unconditional release.