Kanu’s Lawyers Condemn Rendition Justification, Cite Violation of Constitution!

Kanu’s Lawyers Condemn Rendition Justification, Cite Violation of Constitution!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The legal team representing Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has rejected claims seeking to justify his 2021 rendition from Kenya using the legal doctrine of male captus bene detentus. The doctrine suggests that even if a suspect is unlawfully captured, their trial can still proceed.

Lawyers’ Position

• In a strongly worded statement, Kanu’s lawyers argued that the justification is both unconstitutional and a violation of international legal standards.
• They noted that Section 36 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees fair hearing and due process, both of which were breached during Kanu’s transfer from Kenya.
• The legal team further insisted that the act constitutes extraordinary rendition, a practice condemned under international human rights conventions.

Background

• Kanu was forcibly returned to Nigeria in June 2021 after being apprehended in Kenya under murky circumstances, without extradition proceedings.
• The Nigerian government has defended the move, while human rights organizations and regional courts, including the ECOWAS Court, have raised concerns over its legality.

Why It Matters

• The issue continues to spark legal and diplomatic controversy, especially regarding Nigeria’s adherence to rule of law and international treaties.
• The lawyers have urged the court to dismiss the charges and release Kanu, arguing that the illegality of his arrest taints the entire prosecution.

Citations

1. Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com
2. Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com
3. Punch Nigeria – https://punchng.com

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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