A former lead counsel for Indigenous People of Biafra leader Nnamdi Kanu, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has attributed Kanu’s life sentence to strategic missteps by his defence team. Ejiofor led Kanu’s legal team for nearly a decade before stepping down in 2024.
He claims that changes in the leadership of the defence team, along with procedural errors, undermined efforts that had previously yielded legal successes.
Kanu Sentenced to Life Imprisonment
Kanu was sentenced on Thursday by a Federal High Court in Abuja after being convicted on seven terrorism-related charges. His conviction has sparked national discussions and calls for renewed political engagement in the South-East.
Defence Team Challenges
Ejiofor began representing Kanu after his first arrest in 2015. Over the years, several senior lawyers, including Chief Kanu Agabi and Chief Mike Ozekhome, joined the defence.
In October 2022, the Court of Appeal acquitted Kanu, ruling that his extraordinary rendition from Kenya was unlawful. However, a stay of execution by the Federal Government kept him in detention as the trial continued.
Internal disagreements led Ejiofor to formally withdraw in December 2024, handing leadership to Ozekhome. Ejiofor claims that before his exit, the team had positioned itself for another major legal relief.
Procedural Errors and Publicity Concerns
Ejiofor said that leaks and mismanagement by subsequent team members disrupted the defence strategy. He highlighted concerns about self-representation and excessive focus on public visibility over legal preparation, which created inconsistencies used against Kanu in court.
He also noted the withdrawal of senior lawyers at critical stages and stressed that experienced legal minds remain essential for any effective intervention.
Call for Strategic Legal Approach
With Kanu now serving a life sentence, Ejiofor urged a more strategic, discreet approach by seasoned legal practitioners. He emphasized careful planning, professional advocacy, and minimizing public distractions in future efforts.
