The legal team for Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has announced plans to visit him despite restrictions placed by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Kanu’s primary lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, warned that the DSS could face legal trouble with the Abuja Federal High Court if it continues to enforce these limitations.
The DSS had prohibited Kanu’s legal representatives from visiting him after a disruption occurred at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Kanu requested that Justice Binta Nyako recuse herself.
In response, the court threatened to imprison DSS Director General Adeola Ajayi over the agency’s restrictions on Kanu’s lawyers.
Speaking on Arise TV, Ejimakor remarked, “The court’s warning has already had an effect; I’ve received indications of political involvement from Obi Agwoucha and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, which may help in reaching a compromise. I have been informally informed that the DSS is reconsidering its stance and may be willing to comply.”
He confirmed that he would bring a letter listing the lawyers who plan to visit Kanu on Monday, hoping the restrictions will be removed. “If they are lifted, we will meet with our client; if not, we will continue pursuing our case in court until it is resolved.”
Ejimakor stressed that Kanu is entitled to access his legal counsel as per Section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution. “He should not be held at the DSS; it’s really a makeshift holding area—he belongs in a prison where such restrictions are not present.”
He criticized the DSS’s approach, asserting, “While the DSS is designed for security, these restrictions harm detainees. We’re not demanding an overnight transformation, but if you choose to detain him inappropriately, adjustments must be made. Failing to do so will lead to issues with the court that issued the directive.”