Presidential media aide Bayo Onanuga has criticised Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, for joining a protest organised by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore calling for the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a post on X on Monday, Mr Onanuga said he spotted Mr Ejimakor among protesters mobilised in Abuja by Mr Sowore for the #FreeNnamdiKanu demonstration.
According to Onanuga, “I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore.”
The presidential aide questioned the decision of a member of Kanu’s legal team to participate in a public protest over a matter still before the court.
“I wonder what Mr. Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest,” Onanuga said.
“As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court.”
The sub judice rule prohibits public commentary or actions that could influence an ongoing legal case.
Onanuga said Ejimakor’s participation in the protest could be seen as an attempt to interfere with court proceedings.
He noted that the prosecution in Kanu’s case had concluded its arguements, meaning the focus should now be on preparing the defence.
“The prosecution has concluded its case, and it is now incumbent upon Mr. Ejimakor and the other lawyers to mount a strong defence for Kanu,” he said.
Onanuga added that instead of concentrating on legal strategy, Ejimakor had joined a street protest organised by Sowore, whom he referred to as “a career anarchist.”
“Rather than focusing on preparing a strong case, Mr. Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics, joining a career anarchist to influence the process,” Onanuga wrote.
He further alleged that Ejimakor’s action breached legal ethics and called for disciplinary action by legal authorities.
“Ejimakor’s action questions his adherence to professional ethics. Legal authorities should consider appropriate sanctions for the unethical conduct of the bearded lawyer,” he added.
Ejimakor had earlier posted on X that he was arrested alongside others during the protest.
“We’ve just been arrested. Myself, Prince Emanuel and others. We are at FCT COMMAND CID. Myself, Fine Boy and others. No 1 Zaria Street, Garki 2, Abuja,” he wrote.
The #FreeNnamdiKanu protest, led by Sowore, began around 7 a.m. near the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
Security operatives later dispersed the demonstrators with tear gas.
