ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — Aloy Ejimakor, lead counsel to detained separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu, confirmed Tuesday that he remains in custody at Kuje Prison, following his arrest during a protest demanding Kanu’s release.
Ejimakor was among several demonstrators detained Monday during the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja, organized by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore. The protest coincided with the fifth anniversary of the EndSARS movement.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Ejimakor assured supporters of his safety but criticized the legal process that led to his detention. “I am safe and sound but still under custody at Kuje prison,” he wrote. “The Magistrate refused to listen to our submissions. He insisted on remanding us till Friday and got his way.”
Ejimakor alleged that authorities deliberately bypassed several Magistrate courts in Abuja to have his case heard in Kuje. “Keep in mind that they bypassed several Magistrate courts in town and headed to this one in Kuje,” he stated.
The Nigerian Police Force charged Ejimakor and others with inciting public disturbance and violating a court order. Critics say the arrests reflect growing tensions around Kanu’s ongoing treason trial.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, called for disciplinary action against Ejimakor, accusing him of breaching legal ethics by participating in the protest.
“I spotted Aloy Ejimakor among the small group of protesters mobilized in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore,” Onanuga wrote on X. “As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court.”
Onanuga argued that Ejimakor’s involvement undermines the legal process, noting that the prosecution has concluded its case and that the defense should focus on presenting its arguments in court.
Ejimakor’s detention has sparked criticism from civil rights groups, who view the arrest as an attempt to intimidate Kanu’s legal team ahead of his next court appearance.
Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been in custody since 2021 and faces charges including treason and terrorism. His trial has drawn international attention and remains a flashpoint in Nigeria’s political landscape.
