Judiciary
THE Cultural Credibility Development Initiative says that its attention has been drawn to the announcement, on June 29, 2021, by the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, of the federal government’s re-arrest of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.
The group, in a statement, also noted that the details of his arrest and the rights accorded him have remained in the realms of speculations.
“While his prompt re-arraignment in court and the stated date of July 26, 2021 to commence trial may signal alignment with the rule of law, there are unanswered questions.
“How was Mazi Nnamdi Kanu brought back to Nigeria? Were they in accordance with International laws and conventions? Malami was silent on these.
“Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has fundamental rights under Section 31 of the Nigerian Constitution and Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights. The federal government should comply with both.” The group said.
According to the statement, with the arrest of Nnamdi Kanu, the supposed reason for the increased siege in the South East, the group expects remarkable reduction in the security presence that is resulting in loss of lives in the South East.
“Cultural Credibility Development Initiative looks forward to a trial that aligns with human rights and the freedom of the judiciary to make its decisions on point of law. Security agents should desist from harassment of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s associates, including his lawyers.
“Cultural Credibility Development Initiative is committed to peace, but notes that no peace can be founded within injustice. As Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, of blessed memory would say,
“Justice must not only be done, but must be seen to have been done.
“The media, civil society organisations and the Nigerian Bar Association should be fully present at the trials,” the group added.
JULY 01, 2021 @ 15:40 GMT|
Tags: Group urges fair trial of re-arrested IPOB leader
