Court Dismisses Nnamdi Kanu’s Human Rights Suit Against FG

In Abuja, the Federal High Court judge, Justice James Omotosho, has ruled to dismiss the fundamental human rights lawsuit brought by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), against the Federal Government.

Kanu had filed the suit seeking N1 billion in damages from the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Department of State Service (DSS), alleging violations of his rights during his detention.

The suit, marked FHC/CS/1633/2023, claimed that Kanu’s right to a fair hearing was infringed as the DSS allegedly obstructed his lawyers’ access to him, hindering preparations for his defense in his ongoing criminal trial.

Justice Omotosho, delivering his judgment on Monday, stated that Kanu did not present sufficient evidence to substantiate his allegations regarding interference with his interactions with legal counsel. The judge emphasized that there was no proof that Kanu was denied unrestricted access to his lawyers or that DSS officials had monitored his conversations with legal representatives, which would constitute a violation of his fair hearing rights.

The ruling marks a significant development in Kanu’s legal battles, underscoring the court’s assessment of the evidence presented in the case.