Human rights lawyer Barrister 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the Nigerian government’s plan to prosecute Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the repealed Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act of 2013, calling it legally unsustainable.
In a statement released in Abuja Barr. Chidera argued that the repealed 2013 Act cannot be used as a basis for Kanu’s trial. He urged the administration of President Bola Tinubu to engage in negotiations with Kanu before 20 March 2025 to prevent exposing flaws within Nigeria’s justice system.
“The section of the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act 2013 being relied upon for this prosecution is no longer valid in Nigeria. The jurisdiction to prosecute Kanu under this Act ended with its repeal,” Chidera stated. “Pursuing this case would attract both domestic and international scrutiny and criticism.”
Kanu is scheduled to represent himself in court on 21 March 2025, a move that could draw even more attention to the Nigerian judiciary. Chidera noted, “Reports that Mazi Kanu will defend himself signal a significant development in the case. His decision to self-represent may expose inconsistencies and weaknesses in Nigeria’s judicial system.”
Chidera emphasized that this case serves as a crucial test for Nigeria’s judiciary, carrying serious political and legal implications.
He urged President Tinubu’s government to reconsider the prosecution and seek an amicable resolution with Nnamdi Kanu before the deadline of midnight on 20 March 2025.
