Nnamdi Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, has accused the Federal Government of maintaining a “romantic relationship” with terrorists while relentlessly prosecuting his client, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Ejimakor made the allegation on Friday, criticising what he described as the government’s blatant double standards in handling terrorism-related cases. According to him, while armed bandits and repentant terrorists are often granted amnesty and reintegrated into society, peaceful agitators for self-determination face harsh persecution.

“The same government that brands IPOB a terrorist group is openly negotiating with real terrorists in the full glare of the public,” Ejimakor said. “This selective justice exposes the hypocrisy in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism policy.”

Double Standards in Justice System

Ejimakor questioned the Federal Government’s commitment to the rule of law, pointing to what he called the continuous disregard for court orders directing the release of his client.

He lamented that despite rulings from local and international courts declaring Kanu’s detention illegal, the IPOB leader remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Legal observers say Ejimakor’s outburst reflects a growing frustration over what many in the Southeast perceive as unequal treatment.

They argue that the government’s willingness to dialogue with armed groups while rejecting peaceful agitation sends a troubling message about Nigeria’s justice system.

Government Reacts

The Federal Government, however, has dismissed Ejimakor’s claims. Presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga, described the lawyer’s recent protest activities in Abuja as “irresponsible and unethical,” insisting that justice must be pursued through the courts rather than street demonstrations.

“No one, not even a lawyer, is above the law,” Onanuga said. “Mr Ejimakor knows that matters before the court must not be politicised or tried in the media.”

Security agencies have also defended their actions, insisting that IPOB’s activities pose a threat to national unity and public safety. Officials maintain that ongoing prosecutions are based on credible evidence, not politics.

Arrest and Protest Fallout

Ejimakor was recently among protesters arrested during a #FreeNnamdiKanu demonstration in Abuja. The police accused the group of violating public-order regulations and disturbing the peace.

He was later remanded in Kuje Prison alongside other demonstrators pending further court hearings.

The lawyer’s arrest has drawn condemnation from rights activists, who view it as an attempt to intimidate the defence team and silence dissent.

Human-rights organisations have urged the government to respect freedom of assembly and avoid escalating tensions in the Southeast.

Kanu’s Legal Battle Drags On

Nnamdi Kanu, who was re-arrested in 2021 after fleeing Nigeria, continues to face terrorism and treasonable-felony charges.

His trial has been marred by repeated adjournments, missing case files, and alleged non-compliance with court orders.

Defence lawyers say the government’s delay tactics are part of a larger plan to frustrate Kanu’s bid for freedom. They argue that the prolonged detention violates his fundamental rights and undermines judicial independence.

Growing Regional and Political Tension

The case has deepened mistrust between the Federal Government and communities in the Southeast, many of whom view Kanu’s continued incarceration as politically motivated.

Analysts warn that the perceived imbalance in justice — leniency toward violent extremists and harshness toward separatist activists — risks fuelling further unrest.

Political commentators also highlight the ethical dilemma surrounding legal activism, as Ejimakor’s role straddles courtroom advocacy and street protest. Some lawyers have defended his actions as a legitimate expression of frustration within a system that appears unresponsive to due process.

What To Expect

As the legal battle continues, questions persist about the government’s consistency in applying anti-terrorism laws.

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Whether Kanu’s trial will proceed smoothly — or descend further into political controversy — remains uncertain.

For now, Ejimakor’s accusation that the government is “romancing terrorists” has reignited public debate over fairness, selective justice, and the true meaning of national security in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.