A member of Nnamdi Kanu’s defence team, Barrister Christopher Chidera, has explained why the IPOB leader stopped working with lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor during his terrorism trial.
Ejiofor had previously served as part of Kanu’s legal team before the IPOB leader chose to represent himself in proceedings before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Chidera, who is also a public affairs analyst, shared his explanation in a statement, citing what he described as legal and professional concerns surrounding the handling of Kanu’s case.
Claims of legal errors during trial
According to Chidera, the decision followed disagreements over how certain legal matters connected to Kanu’s detention and trial were handled.
He alleged that important legal steps were not taken after the Court of Appeal’s earlier decision concerning the case.
Chidera claimed that the failure to challenge some legal processes contributed to the continuation of Kanu’s detention and later court proceedings.
He argued that the legal team should have taken additional steps to contest issues surrounding the Federal Government’s actions after the appellate court ruling.
Dispute over criticism and accountability
The lawyer also accused Ejiofor of engaging in attacks against members of Kanu’s family after concerns were raised about the handling of the case.
Chidera said Kanu’s relatives had requested accountability over what they considered mistakes by the legal team.
He alleged that the response to those concerns shifted attention away from the legal issues surrounding the case.
Appeal remains before court
Chidera stated that the ongoing appeal raises important questions about legal procedures, fair hearing and compliance with court decisions.
He called for transparency from those involved in the matter, saying public attention should focus on the legal issues rather than personal disagreements.
The case remains before the Court of Appeal, where further legal arguments are expected.