ABUJA – The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Monday, Justice James Omotosho adjourned the hearing of a fresh N1 billion suit filed by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), against the federal government until March 4. The adjournment resulted from the absence of Mr. Kanu’s legal representation in court.
The applicant, Mr. Kanu, had filed the suit through his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, seeking the enforcement of his fundamental rights while in detention. The court session revealed Mr. Kanu’s absence, while the defense lawyers were present.
The suit, dated December 4, 2023, named the Nigerian government, the attorney-general of the federation (AGF), State Security Service (SSS), and its director-general as respondents. Mr. Kanu sought eight reliefs, including declarations on the violation of his rights during detention, such as the seizure of legal documents and eavesdropping on confidential consultations.
The IPOB leader demanded an injunction against the forcible seizure of legal documents, preventing counsel from taking notes during consultations, and eavesdropping on confidential conversations. Additionally, Mr. Kanu sought an official letter of apology and N1 billion in damages for the mental, emotional, and psychological impact of the rights’ breach.
The defense counsel for the federal government and the AGF informed the court that they were served with the hearing notice but not the originating process. Enoch Simon, counsel for the government, expressed respect for the court by appearing despite not receiving the originating process. Idowu Awo, counsel for the SSS, echoed similar sentiments.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter to March 4 for hearing, emphasizing the need for a hearing notice to be issued and served on the applicant.
