By Ayodele Oni
Lead Counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, Ifeanyi Ejiofor has said his client remains innocent until allegations against him are substantiated by the court.
Reacting to the arrest and extradition of the IPOB leader to Nigeria on Tuesday, Mr Ejiofor pointed out that the legal team was prepared to meet the federal government in court.
The statement by the legal team stated that “we have just confirmed through a correspondence from the Federal High Court Abuja, about the arrest and the extradition of my Client- Mazi Nnamdi Kanu by the Nigerian State.
“It is to be noted therefore, that no matter the gravity of the offences or charge preferred against him, Section 36(5) of the Constitution still presumes him innocent of the allegation.
“He was brought before the Federal High Court No 2 Abuja today on an Eleven count charge, though without our knowledge.
“As it is in the public domain, the matter has been consequently adjourned to the 26th Day of July 2021, for Continuation of Trial.
“The legal team ably led by my humble self will meet them in court on this date.
“We insist that he must be given a fair hearing/trial which is his constitutionally protected right.
“His safety as also guaranteed under our law throughout the trial and afterwards, should be enforced.
“Our fortified Legal team will be meeting to agree on strategies within the context of the Charge and disposition of the Court. Await further update from us as we progress.”
Kanu, whose extradition to the country was made public on Tuesday, was immediately arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja.
The Court has ordered his detention in the custody of the State Security Service, (SSS) till 26th July, when his trial is expected to resume.
