Olayiwola Matthew
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, has urged legal authorities to sanction Aloy Ejimakor, one of the lawyers representing detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, for what he described as a breach of professional ethics.
Ejimakor had joined protesters in Abuja on Monday, demanding the release of Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest in 2021.
In a post on X, Onanuga said he saw Ejimakor among a “small group of protesters” mobilised by activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore.
“I wonder what Mr. Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest,” Onanuga wrote.
“As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court.”
He noted that while the prosecution has already concluded its case, it was now the responsibility of Kanu’s lawyers — including Ejimakor — to focus on presenting a strong defence, rather than resorting to what he termed “extra-legal tactics.”
“Rather than focusing on preparing a strong case, Mr. Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics, joining a career anarchist, to influence the process.
“Ejimakor’s action questions his adherence to professional ethics. Legal authorities should consider appropriate sanctions for the unethical conduct of the bearded lawyer,” Onanuga said.
The presidential aide’s comments follow heightened calls for Kanu’s release and growing public attention on the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow movement, which has seen several activists and sympathisers take to the streets.
Meanwhile, Ejimakor said he had been arrested alongside other protesters and taken to the FCT police command at No. 1 Zaria Street, Garki 2, Abuja, before being released later in the day.
The Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC), which oversees professional conduct among lawyers, may be expected to review Onanuga’s complaint if formally lodged.
Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), remains in detention on charges bordering on treasonable felony.
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest in June 2021.