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Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), seeking N1 billion in damages for alleged violation of his rights by the State Security Service (SSS). Kanu had accused the SSS of hindering his preparation for his defence in custody, including eavesdropping on his conversations with his lawyers and seizing sensitive documents.
In his suit, Kanu claimed that the SSS operatives denied him unhindered access to his lawyers, eavesdropped on his conversations with his lawyers, and seized and photocopied sensitive documents meant for his defence. He argued that these actions violated his rights to a fair hearing and sought an order compelling the SSS to issue an official letter of apology and pay him N1 billion in damages.
However, the court ruled that Kanu failed to provide credible evidence to support his claims. The trial judge, James Omotosho, held that Kanu’s allegations were unsubstantiated and lacked concrete evidence. The judge noted that Kanu’s lawyers were allowed to visit him in custody and that there was no evidence to suggest that the SSS operatives eavesdropped on their conversations or seized any documents.
The SSS had earlier denied Kanu’s allegations, stating that he was in safe and secure custody and was allowed access to his lawyers and family members. The SSS also claimed that Kanu’s lawyers were allowed to take notes during their visits and that no documents were seized from them.
The dismissal of Kanu’s suit comes less than two weeks after he expressed interest in negotiating with the government to drop the treasonable felony charges against him. Kanu’s trial on treasonable felony charges is ongoing before another judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Kanu’s legal team had sought an order restraining the SSS from further violating his rights and compelling them to issue an official letter of apology. However, the court’s ruling indicates that Kanu’s allegations were unfounded and lacked merit.
The court’s decision is a significant development in Kanu’s ongoing trial and may impact his chances of securing bail or having the charges against him dropped. Kanu’s legal team may appeal the decision, but for now, the IPOB leader remains in custody awaiting the continuation of his trial.
The case highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and IPOB, a separatist group advocating for the independence of the southeastern region of Nigeria. Kanu’s arrest and detention have sparked widespread protests and calls for his release, with many arguing that he is being persecuted for his political beliefs.
