June 14, 2026 | Abuja, Nigeria
Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, lead counsel to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has accused Justice James Omotosho of violating constitutional provisions by ordering Kanu’s removal from the courtroom and continuing proceedings in his absence.
In a statement issued on Sunday and titled “The Fell Consequences of Ejecting Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the Courtroom,” Ejimakor argued that the decision amounted to a breach of Kanu’s constitutional right to a fair hearing.
According to the lawyer, while judges have the authority to maintain order and discipline in court, such powers must not override the fundamental rights guaranteed to defendants under the Nigerian Constitution.
Ejimakor maintained that the trial court committed a serious legal error when it allegedly proceeded with Kanu’s terrorism trial after he was removed from the courtroom on November 20, 2025.
He argued that the situation was further complicated by the absence of legal representation for Kanu at the time the proceedings continued, describing the development as a violation of fair trial principles.
The lawyer cited Section 36(6)(c) of the Constitution, which guarantees every accused person the right to defend himself either personally or through legal practitioners of his choice.
According to him, established judicial precedents require that defendants facing serious criminal charges must either be present during proceedings or be adequately represented by counsel if exceptional circumstances warrant their absence.
Ejimakor also criticised the court for allegedly failing to suspend proceedings after Kanu expressed concerns about possible judicial bias.
He argued that where reasonable concerns about impartiality are raised, judicial ethics and legal precedents require careful consideration, including the possibility of recusal where necessary to preserve public confidence in the justice system.
The lawyer further claimed that continuing the trial after Kanu’s removal created the impression that due process had been compromised and could become a significant issue during any future appeal process.
While acknowledging that judges face challenges in managing courtroom conduct, Ejimakor insisted that disciplinary measures should not infringe upon constitutional protections afforded to defendants.
The remarks come amid ongoing legal proceedings involving Kanu, whose trial on terrorism-related charges continues to attract widespread national and international attention.
As of the time of filing this report, the Federal High Court had not officially responded to the allegations raised by Kanu’s legal team.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor the case and provide updates as events unfold.
