Amanze Chinonye
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has dismissed the appeal filed by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), challenging alleged violations of his fundamental rights while in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
A three-member panel of the appellate court, led by Justice Boloukuromo Ugo, ruled that the appeal had “lacked merit and become academic” following Kanu’s November 20 conviction for terrorism offences by the Federal High Court. He is now serving a life sentence at Sokoto Prison, where he has been remanded.
Kanu had alleged violations of his rights to human dignity, quality healthcare, and religious freedom during his detention by the DSS. However, the Court of Appeal held that these claims were no longer actionable since he had already been transferred to prison custody after his conviction.
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History, Drama and That Nnamdi Kanu Verdict
At Friday’s proceedings, Kanu’s lawyer, Maxwell Opara, confirmed that his client was being held in Sokoto Prison. The court noted that this development invalidated Kanu’s earlier request to be moved from DSS custody to Kuje Prison, adding that he had previously expressed a preference for prison custody over continued detention by the secret police.
Justice Ugo explained that the court could not grant any order for relocation or other reliefs because the circumstances had changed fundamentally following the conviction and sentencing.
The appeal was filed against the July 3 judgment of retired Federal High Court judge Taiwo Taiwo, who had earlier dismissed Kanu’s suit on the grounds that he failed to prove the alleged violations.
The latest ruling comes a week after Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja found Kanu guilty on all seven terrorism-related charges, bringing an end to a decade-long trial that has deepened tensions across the South-East.
Kanu’s legal team is expected to pursue further options, including an appeal against the terrorism conviction and life sentence.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
