The Special Adviser Information and Strategy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday criticised one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, Aloy Ejimakor, for participating in a protest in Abuja demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The criticism came as police officers fired tear gas canisters to disperse demonstrators who had gathered in parts of the Federal Capital Territory to press for Kanu’s freedom.
The protest, organised under the banner of the #ReleaseNnamdiKanuNow campaign, drew civil rights activists and members of pro-democracy groups seeking government compliance with the 2022 Court of Appeal judgment that discharged and acquitted Kanu.
Onanuga, who said he personally sighted Ejimakor among the protesters allegedly mobilised by activist Omoyele Sowore, described the protest as “shambolic” and questioned the lawyer’s professional conduct.
“I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore. As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court. Rather than focusing on preparing a strong defence, Mr. Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics, joining a career anarchist to influence the process. Legal authorities should consider appropriate sanctions for this unethical conduct” Onanuga said.
Meanwhile, the protest turned chaotic earlier in the day when police fired several rounds of tear gas around the Transcorp Hilton and adjoining streets in Maitama, forcing demonstrators and passersby to flee.
The scene caused panic as commuters, traders, and motorists scampered for safety amid the heavy presence of armed officers.
Undeterred, the protesters regrouped at Utako, where they continued chanting solidarity songs and displaying banners demanding Kanu’s release before security operatives again dispersed them with tear gas.
Security has since been tightened across the Federal Capital Territory, with soldiers, police, and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) deployed to key areas including Eagle Square, the Federal Secretariat, and the Three Arms Zone.
A gun truck manned by soldiers was also spotted at the Berger roundabout.
Kanu, who has been in DSS custody since his re-arrest in 2021, is facing charges bordering on treasonable felony and terrorism.
Despite a 2022 Court of Appeal judgment acquitting him, the Federal Government has continued to hold him, citing national security concerns.
