The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has accused the Nigerian government of exploiting the prolonged detention of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, for financial and political gain.
In a statement, IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, condemned what he described as a “shameless scheme” designed to enrich security agencies and judicial officials while keeping Kanu unlawfully detained.
The group recalled former Minister of Information Lai Mohammed’s claim that each of Kanu’s court appearances costs the Nigerian government ₦500 million. IPOB labeled this figure an “outrageous travesty,” questioning how such an amount could be justified for a short journey from the Department of State Services (DSS) facility to the court.
Kanu’s case is set to resume on Friday, March 21, 2025, before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja. The case was reassigned to Justice Omotosho after Justice Binta Nyako indefinitely adjourned proceedings.
IPOB criticized the Nigerian government for allegedly using Kanu’s detention as a means of siphoning public funds. According to the group, since Kanu’s arrest and extraordinary rendition in 2021, he has appeared in court approximately 11 times, costing the government an estimated ₦5.5 billion—funds IPOB claims have been diverted by top security officials and judicial officers.
“This is not about justice; it is a state-backed looting spree,” IPOB’s statement read. “While Nigerians struggle under severe economic hardship, the government wastes billions on a sham trial, benefiting only a corrupt elite.”
The group also decried the conditions of Kanu’s detention, stating that despite the alleged millions allocated for his welfare, he remains in the same outfit he wore when he was first detained. “Where has this money gone?” IPOB questioned, accusing security agencies of pocketing funds meant for his care.
Calling for international intervention, IPOB urged human rights organizations and the global community to hold the Nigerian government accountable.
“The world is watching. The perpetrators of this injustice may believe they are untouchable, but the truth will prevail,” the group declared, reiterating its demand for Kanu’s immediate release.
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