Abuja — The Nigerian government has officially denied recent reports suggesting that Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been or will be released or repatriated to Kenya. The National Judicial Council (NJC) described the claims as “fabrications” with no basis in fact.
The NJC clarified that the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, had not presided over any case involving Kanu at the Supreme Court in relation to matters of jurisdiction, nor issued any directive ordering his release or apology to Kenyan authorities.
Kanu, who was Kidnapped in Kenya in 2021 by Nigeria Government and later brought back to Nigeria, remains in custody under the Department of State Services (DSS) as he faces trial on several charges including terrorism and treasonable felony.
His legal team has argued that his detention and rendition violate both national and international legal standards. They have pointed to a Court of Appeal judgment from October 2022 which held that the manner in which Kanu was returned to Nigeria violated his fundamental rights.
Despite these arguments, the government has so far refused to comply with calls for his release, citing ongoing legal proceedings and the reinstatement of terrorism charges by the Supreme Court.
Critics argue that continuing to hold Kanu under these conditions undermines the rule of law, while supporters of the government emphasize concerns of national security and legal process. The case remains a flashpoint in Nigeria’s debate over justice, constitutional law, and political dissent.