In a recent interview on Arise TV from 9:14, legal scholar and political analyst Dr. Sam Amadi stressed that the judiciary must ensure fairness and transparency in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has chosen to represent himself in court.
Amadi, who is the Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, argued that Kanu’s right to self-representation comes with a constitutional obligation on the state to guarantee that he has full access to all materials and witnesses necessary to prepare his defense. He pointed out that denying him such access would amount to a violation of his fundamental rights.
According to him, a fair trial extends beyond the courtroom to include the conditions that allow the accused person to prepare adequately. He warned that restricting Kanu’s contact with witnesses could severely weaken his defense, saying, “If Kanu is not allowed to talk to his witnesses, how’ll he know whom to put in the witness box?”
Amadi explained that since Kanu is being held in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), the court must pay particular attention to how this affects his ability to communicate and prepare. He said the judge has a duty to balance national security concerns with the constitutional guarantee of a fair hearing. “The DSS must comply with the court’s directives to ensure that the accused person is given full opportunity to defend himself,” he added.
The discussion on Arise TV also touched on the broader political implications of the trial. Amadi noted that the case goes beyond legal arguments, describing it as both a judicial and political test for Nigeria’s democracy. “This is not just a criminal proceeding; it’s also a political moment that will reflect how the Nigerian state handles dissent and due process,” he observed.
His remarks came as Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, denied reports claiming he issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government demanding Kanu’s release. In a statement by his media consultant, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, Tompolo described the report as “false and misleading,” reaffirming his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and his commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Amadi’s warning, however, brings the focus back to the judiciary. His insistence that access to witnesses is fundamental underscores the delicate balance between state power and individual rights, reminding all parties that true justice depends on both fairness and freedom within the rule of law.
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