ABUJA, Nigeria — Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has demanded the immediate release of Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, legal counsel to detained separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu, following his arrest during a protest in Abuja. Sowore warned that demonstrators would occupy the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command if Ejimakor and others were not released.
Ejimakor, Fineboy Kanu — a relative of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader — and several others were detained during the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest held Monday near Transcorp Hilton. Sowore, who led the demonstration, described the arrests as illegal and accused police of using excessive force, including physical assault and arbitrary detention.
“This is a clear violation of civil liberties,” Sowore said. “We will not allow peaceful protesters and legal advocates to be brutalized and silenced.”
The protest was organized to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in detention since 2021 facing charges of treason and terrorism. His arrest and extradition from Kenya sparked international controversy and domestic unrest, particularly in southeastern Nigeria where IPOB maintains strong support.
In response to Ejimakor’s participation in the protest, presidential adviser Bayo Onanuga criticized the lawyer’s conduct, arguing that it violated legal ethics. “As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice,” Onanuga said. “Rather than focusing on preparing a strong case, Mr. Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics.”
Onanuga called on the Nigerian Bar Association and the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee to investigate Ejimakor’s actions and consider sanctions for what he described as “unethical behavior.”
Ejimakor has long served as a prominent voice in Kanu’s legal defense, frequently challenging the government’s handling of the case and advocating for political solutions. His arrest has drawn criticism from civil society groups and legal professionals who argue that lawyers have a right to participate in peaceful protests, especially when defending human rights.
The incident has reignited debate over the government’s approach to dissent and the limits of legal advocacy in politically sensitive cases. Critics accuse authorities of weaponizing law enforcement to suppress opposition, while supporters of the administration argue that public protests should not interfere with judicial proceedings.
As tensions rise, Sowore has vowed to continue mobilizing support until all detainees are released and the rights of protesters are respected. “We will not be intimidated,” he said. “Justice must be defended — in the courtroom and on the streets.”
